Key extols the Indian Diaspora

Prime Minister John Key has praised the Indian Diaspora, paying tributes to their hard work and dedication.

“The Indian community is hard working and diligent. They have been partners in the progress and development of New Zealand for more than 100 years,” he said, speaking at the inaugural session of the 84th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the New Zealand Indian Central Association in Auckland on March 27.

He said the National Standards launched by his Government recently would ensure children learnt the basics, including reading, writing and numeracy (mathematics).

Mr Key said there was hope and excitement over the proposed Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and India, negotiations for which are expected to begin shortly.

Opposition Leader Phil Goff said his (Mt Roskill) constituency accounted for the largest percentage of Indian population.

“I am proud of the highly talented ‘Kiwi Indians.’ We must encourage them to become achievers,” he said.

Auckland Mayor John Banks said the growing influence of the Indian community in New Zealand must be recognised.

“I know there are many qualified professionals among our youth,” he said.

Among the other dignitaries present were Members of Parliament Dr Rajen Prasad (Labour) and Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi (National). India’s High Commissioner Retired Admiral Sureesh Mehta addressed the post-lunch session.

Later, the AGM elected Paul Singh Bains to the post of President.

Auckland Indian Association President Harshad Patel was elected unopposed to the post of Vice-President.

Among the other office-bearers elected were Rajeev Singh Thandi (General Secretary), Raj Bedi (Assistant Secretary) and Manjit Singh (Treasurer).

Outgoing President Ratilal Champaneri was made a Life member.

The Meeting also elected the following to chair various committees for 2010-2011:

Gurpreet Kaur (Women’s Forum), Ashwin Gulab (Wider Representation-Social and Cultural). Ratilal Champaneri (Funding, Planning & Budgets) Tarun Pragji (Youth Forum), Amritbhai Vasan (Constitution & Legal Advice), Prithipal Singh Basra (Immigration), Ashok Darji (Law & Order-Crime Prevention), Kaushal Dhar (Website Coordination), Ganges Singh (Honours, Awards & Life Membership) and Madanjeet Singh Bange (Health and Welfare, Human Rights and Race Relations).