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The GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) officially launched its Connecticut Chapter in Hartford, marking a milestone in expanding business, trade, and professional networking opportunities for members of the Indian diaspora in the state and beyond.
The inauguration ceremony was held on July 30, 2026, in the Old Appropriations Room at the Connecticut State Capitol. According to a GCCI statement, the event brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and members of the Indian American community.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont inaugurated the chapter by participating in the traditional Indian lamp-lighting ceremony. Earlier that day, Gov. Lamont signed legislation establishing the Connecticut-India Trade Commission during a separate ceremony at the State Capitol.
Reflecting on the relationship between the two nations, Governor Lamont said, “The relationship between India and the United States is much more than commercial. We both fled colonialism to become the largest democracies on the planet Earth.” His remarks underscored the historical, cultural, and democratic ties between India and the United States while providing broader context for the launch of the new GCCI chapter.
The Connecticut Chapter becomes part of GCCI’s growing global network under GOPIO International’s vision of connecting entrepreneurs, investors, startups, professionals, and business leaders of Indian origin. The organization aims to promote trade, investment, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology transfer, mentorship, and professional networking while strengthening economic ties between India and countries around the world. Through its chapter-based model, GCCI seeks to support businesses of all sizes and encourage collaboration across industries.
Among the featured speakers was Connecticut State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, who reflected on the contributions of Indian immigrants to American society. Highlighting the role of immigrant communities in shaping the nation, she said, “Not only do Indians touch every part of the United States in different sectors and throughout the world, but also that they have come to the United States, just like our previous immigrant communities. They’ve become a fabric of the American story.”
She also emphasized the importance of organizations such as GOPIO in raising the profile of the Indian American community and recognizing its achievements. “I’m so glad today that we’re able to not just look to our future, but talk about historically what we also have,” she added, stressing the importance of preserving the community’s legacy while building future opportunities.
India’s Consul General in New York, Binaya S. Pradhan, praised the accomplishments of the Indian diaspora, describing overseas Indians as one of the world’s most successful and dynamic communities, not only for their economic achievements but also for their contributions to the countries where they live.
“Wherever the Indian diaspora has been, one common thing is that they are economically very successful,” Pradhan said. “But another common thing, of which I am even more proud, is their contribution to the countries in which they live.” He noted that Indian Americans have become an integral part of the American success story through their contributions to healthcare, hospitality, education, technology, entrepreneurship, culture, and innovation.
Highlighting the community’s role in national development, Pradhan said, “The Indian diaspora here has not only been part of the growth story back home in India. They have been part of the growth story here. They have been a net contributor to American nation-building.” He added, “We touch every aspect of American life, whether healthcare, hospitality, education, culture, business, or innovation.”
The Consul General also described the diaspora as a vital bridge between India and the rest of the world. “Today, the Indian diaspora acts as a bridge between India and the international world,” he said, emphasizing its role in advancing economic, educational, technological, and cultural cooperation.
Commending GOPIO’s longstanding work with overseas Indians, Pradhan remarked, “When it comes to organizing such initiatives, I must say unhesitatingly that GOPIO comes right at the top.” He extended his best wishes to the newly established Connecticut Chapter and expressed confidence that it would help create new opportunities for business growth and India-US cooperation.
Providing the broader vision behind the initiative, GOPIO International Chairman Thomas Abraham outlined the strategic importance of building a global commerce network anchored by the Indian diaspora. He noted that the global Indian diaspora numbers approximately 36 million people, making it one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing international communities. He also highlighted India’s young population, entrepreneurial culture, and English-speaking workforce as key drivers of its growing global economic influence.
Abraham said GCCI was incorporated in Connecticut to serve as a global platform connecting entrepreneurs, investors, startups, businesses, and professionals of Indian origin with one another and with partners in India.
“By leveraging the expertise and resources of the Indian diaspora, GCCI aims to advance cross-border commerce, encourage innovation, and contribute to sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Expanding on the organization’s mission, Abraham added, “The GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is a global platform that connects Indian diaspora entrepreneurs, businesses, investors, startups, and professionals with one another and with their counterparts in India.” He said GCCI aims to build a worldwide network through local chapters in regions with significant Indian diaspora populations.
GOPIO President Prakash Shah told attendees that members of the Indian diaspora have achieved considerable business success in countries where they have settled. He also highlighted GOPIO’s monthly webinar series on contemporary issues, which connects members of the global Indian diaspora, and announced the organization’s upcoming Biennial Convention, scheduled to be held in Mumbai from December 18 to 20, 2026.
Congratulatory remarks were also delivered by Alan Tan, Co-Chair of the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity; Nandita Ruchandani of the South Asian Bar Association; and GOPIO Connecticut President Mahesh Jhangiani. GCCI Treasurer Prasad Chintalapudi delivered the vote of thanks, concluding the launch ceremony.
Among those in attendance were Deputy Consul General of India in New York, Vishal Harsh and Consul (Political) Piyush Singh.
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