Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured in absentia with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Global Peace Award for Minority Upliftment during the launch of the Association of Indian American Minorities (AIAM) in Maryland, USA, on November 22, 2024. The award, presented by Washington Adventist University and AIAM, acknowledges Modi’s contributions to inclusive development and minority welfare. AIAM aims to promote unity among Indian American minorities and was founded by prominent community leaders, including Jasdip Singh as Chairman. This recognition has been met with praise from various stakeholders within the Indian American diaspora, who commend Modi’s commitment to secularism and communal harmony.
AIAM Launch and Award Presentation
The AIAM was inaugurated at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Maryland, with a focus on fostering unity among diverse Indian minority communities in the United States. During the event, Jasdip Singh, a notable Sikh philanthropist and AIAM’s Founder and Chairman, highlighted PM Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. He stated that under Modi’s leadership, India has adopted an inclusive approach to governance, ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of their background. The award ceremony also featured remarks from Satnam Singh Sandhu, a Member of Parliament, who praised the “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” initiative for its role in promoting communal harmony.
Contextual Background
The establishment of AIAM comes at a time when there is a growing need for representation and support for minority communities within the Indian American diaspora. The organisation aims to address issues of unity and welfare while countering narratives that seek to divide communities. Members of the diaspora expressed their appreciation for PM Modi’s efforts in maintaining India’s constitutional commitment to secularism and fostering an environment where minorities can thrive. Notably, Jewish Indian-American Nissin Reuben spoke about India’s historical acceptance of its Jewish population, illustrating the nation’s legacy of interfaith harmony.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we celebrate initiatives that promote peace, dialogue, and inclusivity. The recognition of PM Modi with the Global Peace Award reflects a commitment to uplifting minority voices and fostering communal harmony. As we witness the formation of organisations like AIAM that aim to bridge divides and encourage collaboration among diverse communities, we invite our readers to reflect on how such efforts can contribute to positive social change. How can we further support minority upliftment in our society? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
