Hicksville, New York — The Association of Indians in America (AIA) marked a significant leadership transition on February 7, 2026, when National President Nilima Madan and her newly elected National Executive Committee took their oaths at a grand inaugural ceremony. Despite challenging winter weather, the event drew hundreds of participants both in person and via virtual participation from across the United States, reflecting the organization's national reach and community strength.
The milestone celebration underscored AIA's continued commitment to representing the Indian diaspora while advancing civic engagement and cultural preservation in America.
Key Facts
• Nilima Madan (New York) inaugurated as National President for the 2026–27 term, leading a diverse 14-member executive team representing Florida, Illinois, New York, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, and Wisconsin
• High-profile government officials administered oaths: New York State Attorney General Letitia James, Congressman Tom Suozzi, and Congresswoman Laura Gillen, emphasizing AIA's influence in political circles
• Founded in 1967, AIA is America's oldest national organization representing Asian Indians, now celebrating nearly six decades of service to the Indian American community through cultural, educational, and charitable initiatives
The ceremony unfolded with precision despite the inclement weather that challenged attendance. Organizers successfully managed a hybrid format, allowing members from across multiple states to participate in real-time via Zoom while maintaining the energy and dignity of the in-person gathering in Hicksville.
Five Vice Presidents received their oaths: Naresh Bhasin (Florida), Salil Mishra (Illinois), Dr. Binod Verma (New York), Dr. Sunil Mehra (New York), and Uma Eniasivam (Florida). Gobind Bathija of New York was sworn in as Treasurer, while fourteen members-at-large from across the nation strengthened the geographic representation of the committee.
President Madan's acceptance speech resonated with humility and purpose, acknowledging the trust placed in her by the broader AIA membership. She specifically recognized the unwavering commitment of senior members, trustees, and honorees who bring integrity and goodwill to the organization's mission.
The leadership restructuring included strategic committee appointments that will shape the organization's direction over the coming year. Sushma Kotahwala took on the Membership Chair role, Gunjan Rastogi assumed the Parliamentarian position, and Santosh Pandey became Chair for Bylaws and Rules, setting a clear operational framework.
Notable board trustees in attendance included Dr. Nirmal Mattoo, Dr. Vijay Mattoo, Naveen Shah, Dr. Dolly Manvar, and Gobind Munjal, who represented institutional continuity and guidance. The outgoing president received a commemorative plaque and a formal citation from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, honoring service to the broader community.
Cultural programming elevated the ceremony's significance, featuring a soulful rendition of the American National Anthem followed by classical Kathak dance performance by Esha Mishra. The Indian National Anthem, performed by Jyoti Gupta and AIA members, beautifully symbolized unity, heritage, and pride in dual cultural identities.
❝ Leadership is only as strong as its team, and I have immense confidence in the collective strength, experience, and dedication of our newly sworn-in National Executive Committee. Together, we will carry forward AIA's proud and historic legacy with unity, pride, and purpose.
The evening's significance extended beyond ceremonial proceedings, reflecting the broader political importance of the Indian American community. Congratulatory messages and proclamations from United States Senator Chuck E.
Schumer, India's Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, Consul General Binay S. Pradhan, and numerous state and local officials demonstrated AIA's standing across government at all levels.
As the AIA embarks on its 2026–27 term, community members and well-wishers should watch for increased civic engagement initiatives and enhanced cultural programming. President Madan has signaled a commitment to collaboration and active member participation, positioning the organization to meaningfully influence Indian American representation in political and social spheres.
Do You Know?
The Association of Indians in America predates many major Asian American organizations by decades — founded in 1967, it has served as the nation's oldest continuously operating national organization dedicated exclusively to representing the interests and heritage of Indian Americans, navigating the community through profound social and political transformations across nearly six decades.
Key Terms
• National Executive Committee (NEC): The governing body of AIA consisting of the President, Vice Presidents, Treasurer, and members-at-large who make organizational decisions and represent the association at national level
• Oath Ceremony: A formal ritual where elected leaders take legal and moral vows to uphold constitutional duties and organizational principles, signifying transition of power and commitment to their elected positions
• Diaspora: Indian-origin communities living outside India who maintain cultural, religious, and family connections while integrating into their adopted countries, like Indian Americans in the United States
• Kathak: One of India's eight classical dance forms originating in North India, characterized by rapid footwork, intricate hand gestures, and storytelling through movement, often performed at cultural celebrations
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