Eminent Indian-American physician and philanthropist Dr Sudhir Parikh, who was awarded with the prestigious Padam Shri this year, has been felicitated by political leaders of New York and New Jersey at a reception hosted in Jersey City this past week.
Parikh has "demonstrated exceptional leadership in the Indian-American community and has been a strong benefactor for the progression of Indian culture and heritage within our state and nation," said the New Jersey Governor Chris Christie in a message on the occasion.
He was also presented with a State of New Jersey Legislative Commendation issued by General Assembly Member Upendra Chivukula.
That commendation, among other things, noted that "as a result of his considerable accomplishments and exemplary dedication to excellence, Sudhir M Parikh has brought honour
and pride to his community."
Parikh was presented a proclamation by New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky recognising his "outstanding achievements as a South Asian American."
Congressman Carolyn Maloney from New York, who is facing a tough Democratic Party challenge from Indian-American upstart Reshma Saujani, presented to Parikh citations of the US House of Representatives, recognising the New Jersey
allergist and publisher's "achievements and dedication" to philanthropy, community service and his contributions to strengthening US-India relations.
The citations, which were duly mentioned in the Congressional Record, were initiated by Congressmen Frank Pallone and Gregory W Meeks.
Speaking on the occasion, Parikh, who dedicated his Padma Shri award to the community, underscored the need for Indian-Americans to be vigilant of their rights and privileges in the context of the recent murder of Divyendu Sinha in New Jersey and the negative portrayal of Indians in the state by Time columnist Joel Stein.
Urging the young people to get involved in the
political process, he said: "We must be constantly conscious of how our community is perceived."
In his remarks, Consul General of India in New York Prabhu Dayal praised Parikh's philanthropic nature and said the physician was someone who can be counted on at anytime,
for any good cause.
India's Deputy Permanent Representative at the United Nations Manjeev Singh Puri also spoke on the occasion.