Our Bureau
South Brunswick, NJ
The inaugural GLO-INDIA “Icons of Impact” Gala commenced with the traditional Lighting of the Ceremonial Lamp, a cherished Indian tradition symbolizing wisdom, unity, prosperity, and the triumph of knowledge. The lamp-lighting ceremony was led by Dr. Rajeev Mehta, Chairman of GLO-INDIA; H. S. Panaser, President of GLO-INDIA; Mr. Dinesh Mittal, Co-Chairman of GLO-INDIA; and Ms. Rajlakshmi Kadam, Consul (Trade), Consulate General of India, New York, representing Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York.
The evening was professionally emceed by Ms. Ajooni Kaur (Sanofi) and Ms. Alicia Kaur (Columbia University), whose grace, professionalism, and enthusiasm helped create a memorable and inspiring atmosphere.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, guests stood for the National Anthems of the United States of America and the Republic of India, beautifully performed by Ms. Alicia Kaur, a former X-Factor participant. Her stirring rendition of both national anthems was one of the evening’s most memorable moments and received enthusiastic appreciation from the audience.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Dr. Rajeev Mehta, Chairman of GLO-INDIA, H. S. Panaser, President of GLO-INDIA, and Mrs. Rajlakshmi Kadam, Consul (Trade), CGI New York, who spoke about the growing influence of the Indian diaspora and the importance of leadership, service, innovation, and global collaboration.
GLO-INDIA “Icons of Impact” Honorees
The Global Indian Diaspora Alliance (GLO-INDIA) proudly honored an exceptional group of leaders whose achievements have made a significant impact across business, healthcare, science, technology, public policy, agriculture, and community service.
• Mr. Roop Singh – Chief Executive Officer, Version 1, Ireland; former CEO, Birla Group.
• Dr. Navneet Puri – Distinguished Pharmaceutical Scientist and former Board Director, Pfizer.
• Dr. Pardeep Gupta – Burroughs Wellcome Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pennsylvania.
• Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan – Internationally recognized Economist and Strategy Leader.
• Prof. Om Parkash Dhankher – Professor of Agricultural Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Amherst.
• Mr. Puneet Ahluwalia – Founding Partner, New World Strategies; former Member of the Asian Advisory Committee to President Donald Trump (2016).
• Dr. Sparshil Patel – Compassionate Healthcare Leader dedicated to advancing patient care and community wellness.
• Dr. Sunil Parikh – Distinguished Healthcare Leader recognized for his contributions to medical excellence and community service.
• Dr. Sumul N. Raval – World-renowned Neuro-Oncologist and leader in brain cancer treatment and research.
• Mr. Srujal Parikh – Past President and Board Trustee, Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), and prominent community leader.
• Mr. Ajit Mannon – Chief Global Commercial Data, Digital and AI Officer, Johnson & Johnson.
These distinguished honorees exemplify the spirit of leadership, innovation, service, and excellence that the GLO-INDIA “Icons of Impact” Awards seek to celebrate. Their accomplishments continue to inspire future generations and strengthen the global influence of the Indian diaspora.
Icons of Public Service and Legislative Leadership
GLO-INDIA was also privileged to recognize distinguished elected officials as Icons of Public Service and Legislative Leadership for their unwavering commitment to public service, community development, diversity, and civic engagement.
Special messages and congratulations were received from the Honorable Governor of New Jersey, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, and the Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York, recognizing the achievements of the honorees and applauding GLO-INDIA’s efforts to strengthen and empower the global Indian diaspora.
Proclamations and citations were presented by:
• Senator Linda Greenstein
• Senator Vin Gopal
• Senator Patrick Diegnan
• Assemblyman Sterley Stanley
• Assemblyman Balvir Singh
• Mayor Samip Joshi
• Mayor Neena Singh
• Mayor Hemant Marathe
The organization was also honored by the presence of Commissioner Shanti Narra,
While representatives from TiE and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) were unable to attend due to prior commitments, GLO-INDIA sincerely appreciates their continued support and goodwill.
A special note of gratitude is extended to Dr. Manjeet K. Panaser, President of the Women’s Council, whose leadership and support helped contribute to the success of the event. Special appreciation is also extended to Ms. Ajooni Kaur and Ms. Alicia Kaur for their outstanding contributions as emcees and performers.
GLO-INDIA further extends its heartfelt thanks to Mr. Raj Tiwari for his tireless dedication, hard work, and commitment in helping make the inaugural Icons of Impact Gala a tremendous success.
The organization also expresses its sincere appreciation to the Indian-American media community for their unwavering support and extensive coverage of the event. Special thanks are extended to Prof. Indrajit Saluja, Mr. Sunil Hali, Mr. Harvinder Singh, and Mr. Suniel whose participation and media coverage helped showcase the achievements of the honorees and the mission of GLO-INDIA. Their support reflects the strong spirit of unity, collaboration, and commitment that continues to strengthen the global Indian diaspora.
