Celebrating 8th International Women’s Day 2026, hosted by FIA and Consulate General of India

This signature event, now in its eighth year, recognizes exceptional women leaders from the Indian diaspora who have climbed all the barriers and have inspired communities in the US through their remarkable achievements in different sectors like business, media, finance, and social entrepreneurship.

The evening was emceed by Riddhi Parikh Patel. She started the program with a quiet moment of silence to remember Radha Subramanyam, a previous award winner who recently passed away.

FIA’s new President, Sreekanth Akkapalli, who assumed his role on January 1, 2026, spoke about the group’s strong support for women leaders. He further expressed his gratitude to all the women for the big positive changes they have made and congratulated the award winners on behalf of FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, the Board, Trustees, and Executive Committee. After his speech, FIA President Sreekanth Akkapalli introduced the special guest, Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, India’s Consul General in New York. 

Further, the Consul General emphasized women’s empowerment as integral to national progress, spotlighting India’s initiatives like “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” for girl child education; Ujjwala Yojana for clean cooking fuel; economic programs connecting 100 million households to 9 million women-led self-help groups, and building the world’s largest pipeline for women in public office. He also expressed his gratitude towards his wife for her unwavering support.

Further, the Honorees received Certificates of Recognition from Governor Kathy Hochul, along with FIA sashes and trophies. Ms. Jody Lynne Herkloz, COO of Northstar strategies called on women to uplift each other. Dr. Balpreet Grewal-Virk, the Senior Vice President of Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health, credited FIA for its work in building the community. She also gave credit to her parents’ bravery, the strength of immigrants, and her husband’s support.

American Actress Ms. Reshma Shetty also reflected on motherhood and cultural legacy for her 10-year-old. Ms. Tania Kinsella, First Deputy Commissioner of NYPD, dedicated the honor to her mother and grandmothers, symbolizing generational triumphs over traditional barriers. Additionally, the Wife of the CGI-NY, Binaya S. Pradhan, Monalisa Shuvadarshini, also expressed her gratitude to everyone for the recognition and appreciation.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Srishti Kaul Narula, General Secretary of FIA,  followed by a special dinner. The annual observance reflects FIA’s continued commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women to drive meaningful change in society. Since 1970, FIA has strengthened Indo-US ties through cultural events, advocacy, and service for the Northeastern Indian diaspora.