New York: The American India Foundation (AIF) raised more than $4.5 million at its annual New York Gala held on June 10 at Cipriani Wall Street. This marked the highest fundraising total in the organization’s 24-year history.
The sold-out event drew nearly 700 attendees, including business leaders, philanthropists, and members of the Indian diaspora. Funds raised will support AIF’s programs in public health, education, and livelihoods, which have impacted over 21 million lives across 35 states and union territories in India since the organization’s inception in 2001.
AIF CEO Nishant Pandey addressed the gathering, emphasizing the role of collaboration in the organization's work. “Tonight is not simply about generosity—it is a collective act of belief in the power of partnership. AIF’s success is built on this very foundation. This record-breaking support not only funds programs but highlights our collective dedication to Viksit Bharat.”
A highlight of the evening was a $1 million pledge by Bharat and Neerja Desai towards AIF’s educational programs, including the DEEP Shaala initiative in Amreli, Gujarat—a digital inclusion project in partnership with Samvid Ventures.
AIF honored Roshni Nadar Malhotra, chairperson of HCLTech, and Douglas L. Peterson, former president and CEO of S&P Global, for their leadership and philanthropic contributions.
