The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin-North Jersey Chapter (GOPIO-North Jersey), in partnership with the Indian Consulate, New York, and with support from local groups like Parsippany Rotary International and Heart and Hand for Handicapped, launched the India Collection of Books at the Parsippany Library in New Jersey on Sept. 29.
The event was inaugurated by Pragya Singh, the Indian consul for Visa and Community Affairs, and attended by library president Melisa Kuzma, Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, former Telangana Minister Ponnala Lakshmaiah, New Jersey commissioner Upendra Chivukula, White House Policy Advisor on Energy Jai Vaingankar, and local community leaders.
The program began with Rajendar Dichpally, director of the Gandhian Society, who highlighted how initiatives like this strengthen ties between the Indian American community and India. Program co-chair Santosh Peddi, president of Parsippany Rotary International, expressed pride in co-sponsoring the event. In the event, children sang the American and Indian national anthems.
Library president Melisa Kuzma welcomed the donation of diverse books and announced a Diwali celebration in October. Mayor Barberio noted the contributions of Indian Americans in Parsippany and appreciated the positive response to the India Initiative at the library.
GOPIO International chairman Thomas Abraham, who coordinated the book collection, told the audience that Indian Americans have achieved much success and should give back to society. He noted that GOPIO chapters have launched the India Collection of books at libraries in Norwalk, Stamford, Edison, Queens, and Long Island.
Abraham thanked the Parsippany Library for hosting the collection. The books were provided by the Indian Consulate and supplemented by community donations, including new titles and rare classics presented in traditional dress.
Pragya Singh, head of visa and passport renewals at the Indian Consulate, emphasized India's diversity and the Consulate's commitment to supporting local Indian organizations through initiatives like the donation of useful books for the community.
New Jersey commissioner Upendra Chivukula encouraged Indian Americans to engage in local politics for greater representation. Former Telangana Minister Ponnala Lakshmaiah shared his journey from working in a library at age six to donating his autobiography to the Parsippany Library.
The event featured classic book presentations in various Indian languages and a cultural program with music and dance by Indian American students.
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