Greater Washington, D.C. organizations host Health Minister of Andhra Pradesh, and Indian child rights activist

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The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Washington DC Chapter and Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party-USA (OFBJP-USA), along with other DC metro based Telugu organizations hosted a Meet-and-Greet for the Minister of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Satya Kumar Yadav, on September 2, 2024, in Haymarket, Virginia.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Yadav highlighted the significant progress India has made over the past decade, especially through infrastructure investment over the last five years. He mentioned that even states like Uttar Pradesh, once considered underdeveloped, have become more progressive. Yadav proudly noted that India is now the world’s fifth-largest economy and aspires to be among the top two by 2047, the year of India’s Centenary celebrations.

He emphasized the need for Indians to transition from being knowledge practitioners to knowledge producers. According to him, although many Indians, like Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai, lead major global corporations, they are working on platforms and technology created by others. Yadav urged for a focus on innovation, especially by starting early by encouraging children to become creators rather than just rote learners.

Regarding the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Yadav expressed confidence that India could achieve them early, by 2027 or 2028, given the nation’s current momentum.

He praised the contributions of leaders like NT Rama Rao and Chandrababu Naidu, who elevated the global standing of Telugu people. When the IT revolution happened, a lot of people came from Andra Pradesh to the United States, said Minister Yadav acknowledging significant contributions from this state to the growth of the US.

President of OFBJP-USA, Adapa Prasad, recalled his close association with Minister Yadav for over two decades. “He’s a meticulous person, and wonderful coordinator,” said Prasad expressing happiness about his appointment as Andhra’s Health Minister.

He praised the NDA alliance in Andhra Pradesh, highlighting that the state will see great benefits under the leadership of Chief Minister, Chandrababu Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prasad mentioned that the OFBJP-USA, established by L.K. Advani in 1991, aimed to improve the image of India and the BJP. In 2020, it was officially registered with the Department of Justice to represent the BJP in the US. He also stressed that OFBJP-USA will collaborate with various communities across the country.

Other speakers including NRI TDP Office Bearer and Past President of Telegu Association of North America, Satish Vemana, and President of Washington DC Telugu Association, Krishna Lam applauded Minister Yadav’s long-term service to the BJP, and his contributions to the party’s growth.

Meet-and-Greet for Chairperson for NCPCR, Priyank Kanoongo

Another Meet-and-Greet event for the Chairperson for National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), Priyank Kanoongo, was held on August 25, 2024, in Bethesda, Maryland.

The event was hosted by Indian American Community organizations in the Washington DC Metro area.

Kanoongo was welcomed by President of OFBJP-USA, Adapa Prasad, State Convenor of BJP, Madhya Pradesh, Rohit Gangwal, Chairman-Trustee of National Council of Asian Indian Associations, Sunil Singh, Founder and Chairman of Sikhs of America, USA, Jesse Singh, and President of Sikhs of America, USA, Kanwaljit Singh Soni.

Kanoongo highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is deeply invested in children’s welfare and closely monitors related programs.

He expressed concerns about drug and substance abuse among children, mentioning a joint initiative by the Narcotics Control Bureau and NCPCR to raise awareness and prevent drug use. He also emphasized that measures like installing CCTV cameras in chemist shops selling certain drugs and creating tobacco-free zones around schools have significantly reduced drug abuse.

Kanoongo noted the successful return of 250,000 children from orphanages to their families, despite resistance from NGOs. He pointed out that foreign funding received by NGOs was a major factor in the exploitation of children, which was addressed through social audits of orphanages.

He went on to discuss the impact of the pandemic on children, particularly through school closures and inadequate family support. He highlighted the work of organizations and government initiatives, including PM Modi’s vision for the NCPCR’s Baalswaraj Portal to monitor children impacted by COVID-19.

Kanoongo emphasized the vital role of technology in child protection, discussing tools like digital classrooms and monitoring apps for effective oversight. Looking ahead, he stressed the need for ongoing government efforts, more special educators, and the integration of technology to improve education. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of community involvement in safeguarding children.