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The Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) celebrated its 20th anniversary with its Annual Awards Banquet on June 13, 2026, at Water’s Edge Banquet Hall in Darien, Connecticut, honoring five distinguished Indian American leaders for their civic, professional, and community contributions.
The milestone event drew state and local elected officials, community leaders, and professionals, highlighting the growing political, economic, and cultural influence of the South Asian diaspora in Connecticut and across the United States. The evening also marked two decades of GOPIO-CT’s work in community service, civic engagement, cultural preservation, and advocacy.
India’s Deputy Consul General in New York, Vishal Harsh, served as chief guest and presented awards to the honorees. Other speakers included Connecticut State Senators Sujata Gadkar Wilcox and Tony Hwang, and Connecticut Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson.
In his keynote address, Harsh praised the accomplishments of Indian Americans, stating, “The achievements of Indian Americans have become a global benchmark—communities across the world look to replicate the success and impact you have created in the United States.”
Reflecting on the contributions of the diaspora, he added, “The Indian diaspora in the United States stands as a powerful testament to excellence, innovation, and global leadership. They have distinguished themselves across sectors, setting benchmarks of achievement and integrity.”
Harsh also highlighted the range of consular services available to the Indian diaspora, noting that support is accessible around the clock to meet community needs.
GOPIO-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani reflected on the organization’s two-decade journey, saying, “As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of GOPIO-CT, I am honored and grateful to reflect on the incredible journey of our organization over the past two decades. Since its founding, GOPIO-CT has served as a vibrant platform promoting community service, cultural heritage, civic engagement, and unity among People of Indian Origin in Connecticut and beyond.”
He added, “This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our members, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners whose unwavering support has made our growth and achievements possible. Together, we have built a strong and respected organization committed to service, education, youth empowerment, and community collaboration.”
Dr. Thomas Abraham, founder president of GOPIO International and chair of the Awards Committee, emphasized the chapter’s broader impact within the global organization.
“Over the past two decades, GOPIO-CT has set an outstanding example of how a local chapter can effectively organize, engage, and serve the community. In many ways, its success became a model for GOPIO International in shaping the structure and activities of local chapters worldwide,” he said.
Reflecting on GOPIO International’s origins, Dr. Abraham noted that since its founding in 1989, the organization has advocated on issues affecting the Indian diaspora, including civil rights, human rights, community empowerment, and political participation. Through conferences, public forums, cultural programs, social service initiatives, and philanthropy, GOPIO has continued to expand its global outreach.
“GOPIO remains committed to enhancing India’s image globally while promoting business, trade, investment, philanthropic linkages between India and the worldwide Indian Diaspora,” Dr. Abraham said.
Mike Joshi, GOPIO-CT banquet chair and secretary, who emceed the event, said the celebration also served as a fundraiser for youth-focused charitable initiatives.
“The banquet is not only a celebration of the 20th year milestone for GOPIO but also enabled us to raise funds to support Youth Charity Initiatives in our community. Your continued support makes it possible for GOPIO to continue to deliver on its mission of enhancing cooperation between people of Indian Origin with local communities and continue to support through charitable contributions and volunteer efforts across Connecticut,” he said.
The 2026 honorees represented a wide range of professions and public service roles, including a state senator, a nanotechnology executive, a veteran journalist, a regional bank chief executive officer, and a longtime engineering professor.
