Global Indian Council Celebrates India's 78th Independence Day

The Global Indian Council (GIC) proudly celebrated India's 78th Independence Day with Dr. Dinesh Arora IAS as the guest of honor. The event was a testament to the power of unity and freedom, bringing together people from all continents.

Exceptional Hosting and Performances

The event began with our talented EMCEES, Preethy Pynadath, and Komal Khatri, who showcased their outstanding hosting skills. The singers Adithi and Ananya, of top singer fame, mesmerized the audience with their performances, including the Indian National Anthem and several patriotic songs.

Global Secretary's Address

Global Secretary Sudhit Naimbair welcomed the gathering and highlighted the activities of the Global Indian Council and its chapters. He emphasized the importance of global charitable work and focused on the Waynad relief fund-raising campaign, urging people to join hands with the initiative. We honor the spirit of freedom by extending a helping hand to those in need, empowering communities, and fostering a culture of selfless service, echoing the words of Mahatma Gandhi, 'The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.'

Global President's Message
Global President PC Mathew addressed the audience, stressing the significance of helping others. He shared a heartwarming story of how GIC supported a family in Attapady, South India, who lost their livelihood due to a tiger attack. GIC provided the family ten goats and a cage, significantly impacting their lives. "Start with small help to others and get big help from God." we draw inspiration from Mother Teresa's selfless legacy, dedicating ourselves to serving the marginalized, the poor, and the vulnerable, embodying the true spirit of freedom through acts of kindness, compassion, and charity.

Global Associate Treasurer Tom George Kolath shared his inspiring journey from leaving a poor country 33 years ago to witnessing its remarkable transformation today. Now he is looking for that poor country, and it is nowhere. He highlighted India's achievements, including becoming the first country to land on the south pole of the Moon and its growing role in the global economy.

“I am honored to introduce Dr. Dinesh Arora, IAS, a distinguished physician and dedicated public servant who has significantly contributed to India's growth. We salute you, sir, for your tireless dedication and remarkable achievements.

Dr. Arora's impressive career spans several notable roles, including:

• Founder and Deputy CEO of Ayushman Bharat under Prime Minister Narendra Modi

• District Collector of Cochin and Trivandrum

• Principal Secretary to Health Minister Sreemathi Teacher

• Director of NRHM under the Central Government

• Currently on deputation work in Manila, Philippines, under the Asian Development Bank, where he has been credited with revamping health services in Kerala

Dr. Arora manages diverse projects on health, climate, and pandemic preparedness. He is also pursuing a health policy doctorate at Johns Hopkins University.

Dr. Arora's accomplishments are a testament to his hard work and commitment to India's progress. He congratulated GIC leadership and members for their dedication, highlighting the significant contribution of the diaspora to India's GDP. He emphasized India's growing global influence and the importance of continuing the spirit of India worldwide. Dr. Arora also stressed the crucial need to address climate change, noting the shift from "Brain Drain" to "Brain Gain."

Tom Kolath appreciated Dr. Arora's willingness to share his experience and insights and recognized his significant contributions to modern India.

Dr Jija Harisingh, IPS’s former DGP of Karnataka, shared that her Independence Day message was heart-touching. 
Global Treasurer Dr. Tara Shajan delivered her message to the meeting. Tara reminded her serving in the Indian Army as well as in the NCC cadet during childhood, it gives goosebumps when itsIndependence day as well as republic day. Film-maker Tirlok Malik was supposed to announce and honor the Kerala State's best composer award for a member, Mathew Pulikan, from the Kenya chapter, and he insisted Tom Kolath announce that honor. 

Mathew’s movie “Kathal the Core”, starring Mammooty, is one of the unique visual media pieces. Being a Filmmaker, Tom Kolath honored this winner, and GIC is so proud of an African artist; GIC always has some connection to all the good things happening in the past. - Mathew Pulikan, thank you for your achievement and for joining us from the African chapter.

Dr. Mathew Joys shared that when we celebrate a country's Independence Day with a global organization with people from all continents, there is more freedom, and that celebration becomes sweeter. India's independence is a celebration of freedom from hatred, oppression, and fear and a triumph of freedom to love, unite, and thrive in diversity, embracing the spirit of unity, equality, and justice for all.

Sosamma Andrew, chairperson of COE women's empowerment, gave an inspiring speech about the Indian diaspora's love for India. She stated that they love the colors of the flag, just like India, which is very colorful. She emphasized the importance of women's empowerment and the role of the Indian diaspora in promoting Indian culture and values globally.

Dr. Ramesh Edamon from the Central Travancore chapter shared his immense knowledge, recalling his father's service as a freedom fighter. He emphasized the significance of respecting women, quoting a Sanskrit phrase, "Whenever a woman is respected, God is pleased."

Dr. Mohan Lumba, President of the African Chapter, wished everyone a Happy Independence Day and invited GIC to host a conference in Africa. Dr. Jobey Jacob shared a felicitation speech, and Dr. Jaya Jacob from Detroit expressed her joy during her visit to Kerala, highlighting the importance of freedom from hatred. Share your independence with good deeds, and share the love of god. 

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Tom George, expressing gratitude to the esteemed guests, participants, and GIC members for making the Independence Day celebration a resounding success. The event ended with pride, unity, and joy, celebrating India's 78th Independence Day. God Bless GIC.