New York, NY: The Association of Indians in America (AIA) successfully conducted the oath ceremony and inauguration for National President Nilima Madan and of its National Executive Committee (NEC) for the 2026–27 term, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s continued legacy of service, leadership, and community engagement.
Despite inclement weather, the event was executed with great success, drawing participation both in person and virtually specially by members who were to take oath from different states in the US. Many from outside of New York joined via Zoom, while a distinguished audience attended in person, offering overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The ceremony was honored by the presence of New York State Attorney General Letitia James, Congressman Tom Suozzi, and Congresswoman Laura Gillen, who respectively administered the oath to National President Nilima Madan, Vice Presidents Naresh Bhasin - FL, Salil Mishra-IL, Dr. Binod Verma - NY, Dr. Sunil Mehra - NY, Treasurer Gobind Bathija - NY and the newly sworn-in NEC of members at large from different states.
Padma Shree Dr Sudhir Parikh addressing to new national executive committee, also seen in the photo, AIA President Nilima Madan, Board Member Naveen Shah, and AIA Treasurer Gobind Bathija. (Photo courtesy: Nilima Madan)
National President Nilima Madan in her acceptance speech expressed deep gratitude and humility for the trust and support of AIA members, acknowledging the responsibility of carrying forward the Association’s proud and historic legacy. Emphasizing that leadership is only as strong as its team and she highlighted the collective strength, experience, and dedication of the newly sworn-in NEC.
From the AIA Board of Trustees, the event welcomed Dr. Nirmal Mattoo, Dr. Vijay Mattoo, Naveen Shah, Dr. Dolly Manvar, and Gobind Munjal, now also a Trustee. In their presence, the outgoing President was honored with a commemorative plaque, along with a citation issued by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, presented and read by Lionel Chitty.
Several respected community dignitaries from AAPI, AAPIQLI, IDP, IALI, VHI, Rotary (RCHS & RCNS) business leaders and others were also in attendance, reflecting AIA’s strong ties and standing across diverse sectors.
