Our Bureau
New York, NY
The Federation of Indian Associations of USA (FIA NY-NJ-CT-NE), the largest premier grassroots nonprofit organization established in 1970 representing the Indian community across eight states of the East Coast, has announced its 2026 leadership team. The organization has completed its annual internal review and selection process, led by the independently appointed 2026 Election Commission consisting of Alok Kumar, Jayesh Patel, and Kenny Desai. The Commission’s recommendations received full board approval, and the newly confirmed 2026 Executive Team will assume office on January 1, 2026.
Sreekanth Akkapalli was unanimously selected to lead the 2026 Executive Team, succeeding outgoing President Saurin Parikh. Continuing in their roles from the previous team are Vice President Priti Ray Patel and General Secretary Srishti Kaul Narula. As part of this year’s restructuring, the Election Commission and FIA Board streamlined the Executive Team and will expand the Council. Shah Accountants, an independent CPA firm, will serve as the organization’s treasurer.
Akkapalli is a distinguished entrepreneur whose portfolio spans real estate development, technology, media, and diaspora engagement in both the United States and India. His business ventures encompass multinational software development, transit technology consulting, life sciences, IT and cloud computing, sports manufacturing, and premium furniture design, demonstrating both strategic vision and strong operational leadership.
In his remarks as President-Elect, Sreekanth expressed gratitude for the Board of Trustees’ support, noting that he felt “blessed and happy” to receive their confidence. He thanked Chairman Ankur Vaidya for welcoming him into FIA and helping him find “a larger family” within the organization, and extended his appreciation to the Board, Trustees, advisory members, and executive colleagues for their warm reception.
Recognizing the historic significance of becoming the first individual from his home state to hold this position, he affirmed his commitment to serve with integrity and purpose. Akkapalli assured the Board and the wider FIA community of his dedication to advancing the organization, strengthening its flagship initiatives, and developing programs that foster deeper community engagement.
Senior leaders and long-time members warmly endorsed his selection, with one veteran member praising Mr. Akkapalli’s honesty, hard work, integrity, and long-standing commitment, and calling his appointment a historic and forward-looking step that reflects FIA’s growing regional diversity in leadership.
As a 100% volunteer-run organization with over five decades of dedicated service, FIA has earned official recognition in the United States Congressional Record, been honored with India’s prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, and holds two Guinness World Records.
