Remit2India introduces 'The Light of India Awards 2011' to recognise Indians abroad

MUMBAI: Remit2India, the online money transfer service for the NRIs, recently announced a brand new initiative to recognize the Global Indian community.

Over the years, the Indian community abroad has contributed significantly not only to their country of residence but also to the Indian economy back home. Worldwide, Indians are recognized as the most valued ethnic community in terms of their intellectual capital. Their efforts in infusing capital, ideas and international practices have also contributed significantly to the Indian economy apart from keeping alive the Indian traditions and culture far and wide. Indians today have done the country proud through their contribution in various fields like art, science, technology and politics the world over.

Aptly titled the Light of India Awards , the objective of this platform is to recognize & reward these NRIs who have excelled in their respective domains. Presented by the Amrapali Group, the awards are a unique combination where the winners would be chosen in 2 categories - A Jury of eminent names & also online by the NRIs themselves.

Covering 6 categories ranging from corporate excellence to arts & entertainment, the Jury comprising of names like Sulaja Firodia Motwani, Javed Akhtar, Priya Paul, Prasoon Joshi, Shiv Khera, Mahesh Dattani, Shabana Azmi, Pranay Gupte and Madhu Trehan who would choose a winner from each category. Simultaneously, NRIs and Indians across the world would be able to vote online on who they choose as their 'Light of India'. The entire process would be validated by KPMG.

A culmination of the entire voting process is a grand awards event on the 22nd April'11 in New York City. With the Indian Ambassador to the U.S, Ms Meera Shankar, as the Chief Guest, the event would be graced with the presence of some of the biggest names from the NRI community.

Giving his take on the initiative, Avijit Nanda - President, TimesofMoney, said "NRIs have always been one of the reasons for which India has been shining. Having catered to this community with our Remit2India service, it is only logical for us to create a platform to recognize these shining lights. What is even more unique is that for the first time this community is being recognized by a combination of a distinguished Jury & most importantly, by the very members of this community - the NRIs."

Commenting on the platform, Mr. Anil Kumar Sharma, Chairman - Amrapali Group said "We are extremely delighted to be a part of this commendable endeavour. Its great to see Indians succeeding across the globe and get recognized through this initiative. It also fits in perfectly with our philosophy of 'Developing India' as NRIs are key contributors to our nation's success & development."

The other key partners to the event include Sony Entertainment Television, Asia as the Exclusive Television Partner, Etihad Airways as the International Travel Partner, TimesofIndia.com as the online partner, Comcast and Goa Tourism as Associate Sponsors.

Source: EconomicTimes