The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-CT-NE, the largest and oldest grassroots organization representing the Indian diaspora across eight Northeastern states, successfully hosted its 8th Annual International Women’s Day celebration on March six, 2026, at India House in New York City.
Now in its eighth year, the event celebrates exceptional women from the Indian diaspora who have overcome challenges to inspire communities in the United States through remarkable achievements across sectors including business, media, finance, and social entrepreneurship.
The evening was emceed by Riddhi Parikh Patel, who opened the program with a moment of silence to honor Radha Subramanyam, a former award recipient who had recently passed away. FIA’s new President, Sreekanth Akkapalli, who took office on January one, 2026, highlighted the organization’s strong commitment to supporting women leaders. He thanked attendees for their contributions and congratulated the honorees on behalf of FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, the Board, Trustees, and Executive Committee. President Akkapalli also introduced the evening’s special guest, Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, India’s Consul General in New York.
In his address, the Consul General underscored the importance of women’s empowerment for national development. He highlighted key initiatives from India such as “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” promoting girls’ education, the Ujjwala Yojana providing clean cooking fuel, economic programs connecting 100 million households with nine million women-led self-help groups, and efforts to increase female representation in public office. He also acknowledged the support of his wife.
Honorees received Certificates of Recognition from Governor Kathy Hochul, along with FIA sashes and trophies. Ms. Jody Lynne Herkloz, COO of Northstar Strategies, encouraged women to lift each other up. Dr. Balpreet Grewal-Virk, Senior Vice President at Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health, credited FIA for strengthening the community and acknowledged the support of her family and immigrant roots.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by FIA General Secretary Srishti Kaul Narula, followed by a special dinner. The annual celebration underscores FIA’s ongoing dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women to make meaningful societal contributions. Since its founding in 1970, FIA has also played a pivotal role in strengthening Indo-US ties through cultural events, advocacy, and service within the Northeastern Indian diaspora.
