The Indian Overseas Congress USA has strengthened its presence in the United States with the formal launch of its Connecticut Chapter, bringing together organization leaders, supporters and members of the Indian American community.
Kamal Swamy, who played a key role in establishing the new chapter, will lead the Connecticut unit. The launch represents another step in the organization’s efforts to build a broader network across the country and encourage greater participation among Indian Americans.
Several IOC USA leaders and community representatives attended the inauguration, including Vice Chairman George Abraham, Northeast Zone Working President Pradeep Samla, Vice President Baldev Randhawa, Uttar Pradesh Chapter President Prof. Rajvir Singh, Vermont Chapter President Roydas Manthena and Dr. Yogesh Dayma of the Boston Chapter.
Swamy described the Connecticut chapter as the beginning of a new phase for IOC USA in the state. He emphasized the importance of creating an organization that brings together people from different communities and backgrounds. He also thanked IOC USA President Mohinder Singh Gilzian and the organization’s national leadership for supporting the chapter’s formation.
The event also featured a leadership appointment within the organization’s Women’s Forum. Leela Maret was named its new Chairperson. Maret previously served as president of the IOC Kerala Chapter and has held several positions within the organization, while also participating in community outreach initiatives.
Following her appointment, Maret emphasized the importance of providing women with greater opportunities to participate in organizational and community activities. She said women can contribute valuable experience, ideas and leadership while creating stronger connections between different generations and communities.
Maret plans to work with women across the United States to encourage wider involvement in leadership and community initiatives.
Addanki Dayakar, Telangana Government Whip and Member of the Legislative Council, congratulated Swamy and the Connecticut team. He described the new chapter as an opportunity to bring members of the Indian community together and establish a stronger platform for engagement.
IOC USA President Gilzian said the Connecticut launch reflects the organization’s broader expansion across the United States. He credited members and leaders at the state and national levels for contributing to this growth and welcomed the addition of the new chapter.
Other IOC USA leaders, including Abraham, Samla and Randhawa, also congratulated the Connecticut team. Samla highlighted the importance of strengthening the organization’s presence throughout the Northeast.
Going forward, the Connecticut Chapter plans to concentrate on expanding membership, increasing community participation, encouraging women and emerging leaders, and creating stronger connections among Indian Americans throughout the state.
