Calling it an “incredible honor,” to speak at the Grand Launch of South Asian Herald, Maryland Higher Education Secretary, Sanjay Rai praised the publication’s Founder & Editor-in-Chief, T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman, for his “authenticity, professionalism, and high standards of writing.”

“I have known Vishnu for a long time, and a lot has been said by others about his work… When Vishnu writes, you want to read. When he speaks – you just heard him speak here – you want to listen,” Rai remarked during his address on March 6, 2025, in Tysons Corner, Virginia.

Highlighting the current state of journalism, Rai emphasized, “This is not common in journalism today,” while addressing Congressman Shri Thanedar, who was seated in the front row along with other dignitaries. He encouraged the audience to compare Jayaraman’s work with global news outlets, asserting, “Even if you look at well-known global news outlets, look at the articles, look at the standard, and compare it with Vishnu’s articles.”

Rai commended Jayaraman’s commitment to showcasing the progress being made in the nation and highlighting the contributions of South Asians. He noted that Jayaraman’s work not only covers local South Asian stories but also provides a broader South Asian perspective on national and global events.

Acknowledging Jayaraman’s extensive coverage of Maryland, Rai pointed out that while many before him spoke about his work in Virginia, his contributions in Maryland have been equally significant. He highlighted Jayaraman’s election and campaign coverage of Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller and Governor Wes Moore, emphasizing that Jayaraman didn’t “influence” but simply reported the news for the public.

Rai further noted that Jayaraman’s commitment to Maryland’s stories extended beyond the election, covering topics such as higher education, the work of the Comptroller, the South Asian community, and various cultural celebrations.

“So, I want to thank you again for giving us space in your outlet,” Rai said, expressing appreciation for Jayaraman’s coverage of Maryland, Virginia, and national events.

In recognition of South Asian Herald’s launch, Rai presented citations on behalf of Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Comptroller of Maryland Brooke Lierman.

President of the US-India SME Council, Elisha Pulivarti, also congratulated South Asian Herald, stating, “Institutions are created for the community. There is no other purpose.” Pulivarti announced that the SME Council, authorized by the President of the United States to recognize community leaders, was honoring Jayaraman with the President’s Gold Medallion.

“That’s what I’m going to do today. Yes, it’s not an easy thing. I also bring greetings from the President of the United States…” he said, extending congratulations to Jayaraman on the launch of South Asian Herald. Pulivarti was joined by SME Council Board Members Keerthi Swamy and Anand Poojary in presenting the gold medallion.

Additionally, Pulivarti presented a citation to Jayaraman on behalf of Montgomery County Executive, Marc Elrich, further recognizing his contributions to journalism and the South Asian community.

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