The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin ( GOPIO), one of the oldest diaspora organisations,  held its two-day 34th Biennial Global International Convention at Bengaluru last week and discussed, the economy, trade and development, health, education, international chambers of commerce and India’s position in the emerging world.

Established In 1989 in New York it has chapters in most of the 192 countries where millions of diaspora have made their presence felt. About 400 diasporas from about 15 countries, including intellectuals, academicians, high-level government functionaries, media personnel and technology professionals participated in the convention.

A sizeable number of delegates were from the Middle East region, who were very appreciative of India’s foreign policy and good relations which has earned India great respect all over the world.

Presiding over the convention, S. Abdul Nazeer, Governor of Andhra Pradesh and former Supreme Court Judge lauded the contribution of GOPIO International and the diaspora whose remittances annually exceeded US$100 billion.

Addressing the convention, guest of honour, Justice Gopala Gowda (Retd) said that the GOPIO had done extraordinary work for the betterment of the diaspora, and they should be given every opportunity to remain connected with the motherland.

Justice Cyric Joseph (Retd.) emphasised that the diaspora should remain aware of the constitutional values of the country. He added that all top IT Companies in the world are headed by Indians who are doing exceptionally well and are contributing greatly to the growth of the nation.

Harbachan Singh Esq from USA was elected as the new president for a term of 2 years, and the outgoing president Sunny Kulathakal of Bahrain was endorsed as the new chairman for the same period. George Verghese of Kuwait/Bangalore, Sohan Joshi and Vandana Jhingan were reappointed as the General Secretary, Treasurer and joint treasurer respectively.

March 22 and 24, 2024 were decided as the dates for the next GOPIO International Convention in New Delhi.