HI INDIA NEWS DESK
EDISON, NJ – On September 29, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) North Jersey chapter, in partnership with the Indian Consulate in New York, launched the India Collection of Books at the Parsippany Library, New Jersey. The initiative was supported by local organizations such as Parsippany Rotary International and Heart and Hand for Handicapped.
The event was inaugurated by Pragya Singh, Indian Consul for Visa and Community Affairs, who highlighted the Consulate’s commitment to supporting Indian organizations in the U.S. The Indian Consulate provided many books, which were further supplemented by community donations, including both new titles and rare classics.
Library President Melisa Kuzma expressed her gratitude for the donation, announcing plans for a Diwali celebration in October. Mayor Michael Barberio recognized the contributions of the Indian American community in Parsippany and lauded the positive impact of the India Collection initiative.
GOPIO International Chairman Thomas Abraham noted that similar initiatives have been launched at libraries in Norwalk, Stamford, Edison, Queens, and Long Island.
New Jersey Commissioner Upendra Chivukula encouraged greater Indian American participation in local politics for better representation. Former Telangana Minister Ponnala Lakshmaiah shared his personal story of working in a library as a child and later donating his autobiography to the Parsippany Library.
Rajendar Dichpally, Director of the Gandhian Society, and Santosh Peddi, President of Parsippany Rotary International and program co-chair, also addressed the gathering.
This edited version enhances clarity and flow while maintaining the key details.
