New Zealand Indian Central Association met at its 81st Annual General Body meeting at Rotorua. The Mayor of Rotorua, Local MP of Rotorua and Ethnic affairs minister in addition to the hundred odd delegates representing various parts of New Zealand, attended this meeting. After a series of fruitful deliberations, the following team was elected: -

1. Ratilal Champaneri: President

2. Paul Singh Bains Vice President

3. Veer Khar General Secretary

4. Manmohan Kaur Bedi Assistant Secretary

5. Manjit Singh Treasurer

The new vibrant team is determined to develop a new strategic plan to strengthen its branches and affiliate associations in order to empower the sizeable population of Kiwis of Indian origin – close to 100,000 as per the latest census.

The Tasks that shall be taken up immediately include: -

* Continue with the development of our youth Programmes/Projects

* Provide more representation of women at all levels from local to national executive level

* Modernise intra-community information network and strengthen the links between minor Indian ethnic groups

* As the voice of Indian Community in New Zealand; Increase dialogue with the New Zealand government to resolve the issues of the Indian community

* Provide image-building measures for New Zealand in India and vice versa.

* Create an archive of documents to preserve the heritage of 80 years of involvement in the New Zealand community.

Background

New Zealand Indian Central Association (Inc.) was formed in 1926 with three branches Auckland, Country Section (Taumarunui) and Wellington, where there was a sizeable population of Indians residing.

The Indian community throughout New Zealand at that time in its history, felt the need for a single body to represent them in their fight against oppressive legislation and discriminatory immigration policy, and to promote harmony between Indians, the Maori people, and the dominant European population in New Zealand; and to respond to misleading propaganda concerning Indians living in New Zealand. The Central Association was also formed to advance the cause of all Indians, be it political, educational, health, welfare or cultural identity.

Today the three branches have grown into ten independent, self governing, incorporated branches throughout New Zealand, all affiliated to the New Zealand Indian Central Association (Inc.) and there are other affiliated branches representing minor Indian ethnic groups.

The Officers of the Association consist of: President, Vice President, General Secretary, Assistant Secretary and Treasurer. The affairs of the Association are managed and controlled by the Executive Committee plus a nominated member from each affiliated branch. The Executives meet quarterly or more if the need arises. The Officers and the Committee are elected at the Annual Conference attended by delegates from each branch.

For details write to :- PO BOX: 1941, Wellington