The 4th Parade Council meeting was held on June 7, 2023, at Akbar Restaurant in Edison, New Jersey. The meeting commenced with a video address by Hon. Consul General of New York Randhir Jaiswal, urging the Indian American Community to participate in welcoming the Indian PM and to attend the ceremonial reception at the White House.
FIA Gen Secretary Nishi Dhami introduced the agenda for the meeting, and updates were given by FIA President Kenny Desai on the upcoming events and said that this year’s parade will be one of the biggest so far.
The meeting was attended by FIA’s Board members, Executive committee, and Chairman. The distinguished guests were also present at the meeting.
FIA Jt Vice President, Smita Patel shared that 16 groups are confirmed from different schools which will present a variety of programmes.
Vice President FIA Saurin Parikh gave details about the upcoming landmark State Visit of Hon. Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. He said that FIA invited organizations across the 10 states of New York, New Jersey, and New England, and because of the overwhelming response, the maximum capacity of 1500 persons was reached within a week.
PTI Chief Correspondent Yoshita Singh was also present in the meeting and praised FIA for the work done by FIA “with the community and for the community” and its constant endeavor to bring the Indian Community together.
FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya lauded the executive committee for the tremendous effort that has gone into the upcoming state visit. The logistics and coordination were a huge challenge, especially since it was on short notice, but the team has left no stone unturned in trying to make the event a huge success.
He also remembered the previous Chairman, Late Ramesh Patel, on his 3rd Death anniversary, and a one-minute silence was observed in his memory.