The Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of NY-NJ-CT-NE, hosted the prestigious 7th Annual International Women's Day celebration at India House, New York City, on the eve of International Women's Day. Graced by Honorable Union Minister of Women & Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi as the chief guest, the event honored four exceptional women for their remarkable contributions across diverse fields, reinforcing a steadfast commitment to women's empowerment and recognition.
The evening commenced with a welcoming reception, followed by an inspiring digital presentation highlighting FIA's ongoing initiatives promoting diversity and gender equality. Payal Shah, Chair of International Women's Day, adeptly managed the proceedings as emcee, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience.
In her keynote address, Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi emphasized the crucial role women have played in strengthening bilateral relations between India and the United States. "Women of both countries and the diaspora have consistently been at the forefront of developing and nurturing the relationship between America and India," she noted. The Minister also highlighted her recent initiative launched on February 13, 2025, in Washington DC, aimed at fostering women's development across both nations in socio-economic, financial, and technological sectors. This collaborative program underscores both countries' commitment to women's empowerment on a global scale.
Ankur Vaidya presents Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi with a commemorative memento in recognition of her leadership in women's development. (Photo courtesy: FIA)
Anjula Acharia receiving memento. (Photo courtesy: FIA)
A significant highlight of the celebration was an enlightening panel discussion moderated by Anu Sehgal of The Culture Tree. During this insightful conversation, the honorees shared their personal journeys, discussing the challenges they overcame in their respective fields and the pivotal moments that shaped their success.
The FIA and Indian Consulate continued their tradition of recognizing women who have made indelible marks in their respective fields.
2025 honorees include Anu Aiyengar - Global Head of Advisory and Mergers & Acquisitions, J.P. Morgan; Anjula Acharia - CEO and Founder, A-Series Management & Investments; Wendy E. Diamond - CEO & Founder, LDP Ventures, Founder, Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization; and Seema Mody - Reporter & Anchor, CNBC.
The celebration featured heartfelt addresses from distinguished guests, including FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, FIA President Saurin Parikh, and the Consul General of India, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan. Each speaker acknowledged women's indispensable role in society and highlighted the significant progress made toward women's empowerment in India.
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Consul Community Affairs participated in the International Women's Day celebration organized by the New York Telangana Telugu Association in Queens. The event was attended by Mayor Eric Adams, State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, and members of the Indian diaspora, who came together to witness the vibrant cultural performances. (Photos courtesy: India in New York/Facebook)
International Women’s Day was celebrated at the Consulate with BMIT, honoring the achievements & contributions of women. The evening featured poetry on women empowerment by Varsha Pawar Tawde, the launch of Stree Shakti by Dr. Jyoti Chauthaiwal, and the audiobook Agnishikha: Sushma Swaraj by Dr. Medha Somaiya. A special highlight was Tejaswini Sharma’s soulful bhajan. CG Binaya S. Pradhan highlighted the policy interventions and schemes by the Government of India for women empowerment. (Photos courtesy: India in New York/Facebook)
