Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 7 DIASPORA April 10, 2026 NRIs Rally Behind UDF At ‘Kudumba Sangamam’ In Kerala Dr. Arathi Krishna, AICC Secretary in charge of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) and Vice-Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Indian National Congress, has already established an “NRI Connect” war room at the KPCC head- quarters in Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative is aimed at coordinating the deployment and activities of returning NRIs across key constituencies. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Krishna noted, “I have witnessed tremendous enthusiasm among those arriving from abroad, despite the challenges posed by ongoing global conflicts and travel disrup- tions. Their passion and determination to contribute to the party’s efforts are truly commendable. Their presence is invalu- able in a state where NRIs play a vital role across multiple sectors.” Mr. Mahadevan Vazhasseril, global coordinator for IOC on OICC affairs, the host of the gathering, welcomed the attendees and urged fellow NRIs to actively engage in the campaign and make a meaningful difference. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Sunil Aziz, President of INCAS,UAE while Mr. Y.A. Rahim from Sharjah deliv- ered the introductory address. The event was formally inaugurated by Deepa Das Munshi, AICC General Secre- tary in charge of Kerala and Lakshadweep, who highlighted the indispensable role of NRIs in Kerala’s socio- economic fabric. She also expressed solidarity with those in the Gulf region currently facing uncertain- ties due to ongoing conflicts. Applauding the strong turnout, she remarked that the willingness of NRIs to return home and participate in the campaign, despite significant challenges, reflected their deep commitment to Kerala’s future. KPCC spokesperson Anil Bose delivered the keynote address, outlining what he described as the failures of the current administration and expressing confidence that a political shift is imminent. He emp asized that public dissatisfaction has reached a tipping point and that a strong wave of change is building across the state. AICC observers Anees Ahmed and Dan- ish Abrar were also present at the event, lending further organizational support and oversight. The meeting saw active participation from representatives of the IOC, OICC, and INCAS, along with a wide cross- section of diaspora leaders and volun- teers. Notable attendees included George Abraham (IOCUSA), Raju Alampura (OICC Bahrain), Shaji Shamshudeen (Dubai), KTA Muneer (Saudi Arabia), Paul Karuka- pally (IOCUSA), Santhosh Nair (IOCUSA), Raju Varghese Abraham(IOCUSA), John Varghese (IOCUSA), Thampy Mathew (IO- CUSA), A.P Shajahan, Sreejith Pathiyoor, SainulabdeemThaha, Ameer, and Mani- kandan (INCAS OMAN), among others. The UDF candidate, Advocate M. Liju, also made a brief appearance, expressing gratitude to the gathering and acknowl- edging the critical role of NRIs in energiz- ing the campaign. Overall, the Kudumba Sangamam served not only as a reunion of the global Malayali diaspora but also as a strategic mobilization effort, reinforcing the grow- ing involvement of NRIs in shaping the political discourse and electoral outcomes in Kerala. Federation Of Gujarati Associations USA Meets PM Modi Historic engagement underscores growing global influence of Gujarati diaspora; United Gujarati Convention 2026 announced as flagship international gathering A s Gujaratis worldwide continue to shape in- dustries and communities, initiatives like these reinforce their role as a powerful bridge between India and the world. In a significant milestone highlighting the expanding global footprint of the Gujarati diaspora, a high-level delegation from the Federation of Gujarati As- sociations of USA (FOGAUSA) held a formal meeting with Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The meeting marked a moment of strategic dialogue between India’s leadership and one of its most influential overseas communities. Discussions centered on both long-standing challenges faced by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and forward-looking initiatives aimed at strength- ening India–U.S. diaspora engagement. KEY ISSUES RAISED BY FOGAUSA: The delegation presented a comprehensive overview of systemic challenges impacting overseas Indians, particularly Gujaratis residing in North America: • Aadhaar Card Accessibility:Limitations prevent- ing NRIs from obtaining or maintaining Aadhaar credentials, affecting access to services. • Banking & Financial Barriers:Complex compli- ance requirements and transaction restrictions impacting seamless financial operations. • Property Ownership & Inheritance Issues:Legal and procedural hurdles in managing real estate and succession matters in India. • Digital Access Constraints:Limited availability of India-based digital platforms for NRIs, including authentication challenges. FOGAUSA leaders emphasized that addressing these issues would significantly enhance ease of living and strengthen economic participation among over- seas Indians. VISIONARY PROPOSAL: Vibrant Gujarat Summit – USA Edition In a forward-thinking move, the delegation proposed organizing a U.S.-based edition of the globally acclaimed Vibrant Gujarat Summit, aimed at:Strengthening bilateral trade and investment,Promoting Gujarat as a global busi- ness hub,Creating direct engagement platforms between U.S. investors and Indian industries. Prime Minister Modi welcomed the proposal and acknowledged the vital role of the diaspora in advancing India’s global partnerships. GOVERNMENT RESPONSE: Prime Minister Modi reassured the delegation that the Government of India is actively working toward resolving NRI-related challenges through policy reforms and digital innovation initiatives. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining strong, inclusive ties with its global diaspora. DIASPORA POWER SNAPSHOT: Gujarati Presence in North America:United States: 1.2 – 1.4 million,Canada: 250,000 – 300,000,Total North America: ~1.7 million. This vibrant and influential community plays a criti- cal role across sectors including business, healthcare, technology, education, and public service, contributing significantly to both their adopted countries and India. FEATURE STORY: United Gujarati Convention 2026: A Global Celebration of Culture, Commerce, and Commu- nity Orlando, Florida | May 22–25, 2026:FOGAUSA proudly announces the United Gujarati Convention 2026, a premier international gathering set to take place at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld. This landmark four-day event will bring together thousands of Gujaratis from across North America and around the world, offering a dynamic platform to cel- ebrate cultural heritage while fostering future opportuni- ties in business, leadership, and community engagement. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Cultural Extravaganza:Spectacular Garba & Raas Nights.Live performances by interna- tionally acclaimed artists.Showcases of traditional Gujarati fashion, music, and arts. Business & Networking :Large-scale trade exhibi- tions.nvestor and entrepreneur networking sessions. Dedicated startup innovation platform. Community &Youth Forums:Leadership develop- ment sessions for youth,Expert panels on business, technology, and. global trends.Inspirational keynote addresses from prominent leaders. Family & Lifestyle Experiences:Engaging kids’ com- petitions and activities.Authentic Gujarati culinary experiences.Social mixers and community network- ing events. PROMOTIONAL ANNOUNCEMENT: REGISTER NOW – LIMITED EARLY BIRD OFFER: $200 per person (First 2,000 attendees only).Trade show booths available for businesses.Souvenir advertisement opportunities open May 22–25, 2026 Orlando, Florida Federation of Gujarati Associations of USA (FOGA- USA) is a cultural non-profit organization with tax-ex- empt status as per the Internal Revenue Service rules and regulations of the United States of America (click here for the exemption certificate from IRS). EIN: 86-2736605 | IRS Section 501(c)(3) certified non-profit incorporated in Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States.integrated health care delivery system, sponsors this initiative. PHOTO:FOGA-USA PHOTO:FOGA-USA Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets with FOGA-USA delegation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets with FOGA-USA delegation. By Bhailal M. Patel - Continued From Page 6