Six Indo-Americans felicitated

Six Indian Americans have been felicitated with the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor for the year 2014.

The Ellis Island Medals of Honor by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organization is given annually to US citizens who have distinguished themselves within their own ethnic groups while exemplifying the values of the American way of life.

Among the recipients of the award are Yash Paul Soi, considered to be the pioneer in popularizing Bollywood in the US, Silicon Valley entrepreneur Narpat Bhandari and Massachushets-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Samir Desai.

Arun Kumar Pramanik, Neonatologist and a professor of pediatrics at louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Ketki Sharadkumar Shah, clinical director of an outpatient program in New York City and Abdul M Suleman president and CEO of Equinox Hotels, a hotel development and management firm, were also felicitated with the prestigious award.

Congressmen Frank Pallone, Ed Royce and heavy weight Boxing Champion Evander Holyfield were among the 93 US citizens who received the prestigious award at the Ellis Island in New York on May 10.

Describing Yash Paul Soi as Cultural Ambassador for India, the National Ethnic Coalition of Organization (NECO) said he has worked closely with many local politicians and organizations to promote Indian culture.

"Under his leadership the Federation of Indian Associations inaugurated the India Day Parade that is the largest celebration of Indian Independence outside India," NECO said.

"He was also a local leader in the fight to bring democracy to the people of Guyana and supported efforts which led to that Nation's first free elections," it added.