Leadership

Leadership and National Steering Committee

A distinguished group of community leaders, professionals, visionaries, and advocates guiding Indian Americans 250 through a historic national commemoration.

Strategic Guidance
National Representation
Intergenerational Leadership
Indian Americans 250 leadership visual
Dr. Bharat Barai
Chair

Dr. Bharat Barai

ONCOLOGIST, COMMUNITY LEADER, AND ADVOCATE FOR INDIA–U.S. RELATIONS

A respected oncologist, philanthropist, and influential voice within the Indian American community, Dr. Bharat Barai has played a key role in strengthening India–U.S. relations through public advocacy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Known for his longstanding efforts in promoting cultural diplomacy and community empowerment, Dr. Barai brings decades of experience connecting leaders, institutions, and the Indian diaspora across the United States.

His leadership and vision strengthen the mission of Indian Americans 250 while celebrating the contributions, achievements, and enduring legacy of Indian Americans across generations.

Co-Chairs

Leadership Across Sectors

The co-chairs reflect expertise across higher education, investment, healthcare, and global institution-building.

Dr. Romesh Japra

Dr. Romesh Japra

Co-Chair

CARDIOLOGIST, COMMUNITY LEADER, AND CULTURAL VISIONARY

A distinguished cardiologist and influential Indian American community leader, Dr. Romesh Japra has dedicated decades to advancing healthcare, cultural unity, and civic engagement across the United States.

Founder of the Festival of Globe (FOG) in Silicon Valley and Chairman of the Federation of Indian Associations of Northern California, Dr. Japra is widely recognized for building platforms that celebrate diversity, heritage, and global collaboration.

His leadership and lifelong commitment to service strengthen the vision of Indian Americans 250 while honoring the contributions and legacy of Indian Americans across generations.

Ramesh Kapur

Ramesh Kapur

Co-Chair

BUSINESS LEADER, POLICY ADVOCATE, AND CHAMPION OF U.S.–INDIA RELATIONS

A distinguished entrepreneur and strategic advocate for stronger U.S.–India ties, Ramesh Kapur has dedicated decades to advancing bilateral cooperation through business, public policy, and community leadership.

As President of the U.S. India Security Council and President of Medical-Technical Gases, Inc., he is widely recognized for his contributions to industry, political engagement, and national security dialogue between the United States and India.

Through his leadership across civic, philanthropic, and policy initiatives, Ramesh Kapur continues to strengthen the mission of Indian Americans 250 while promoting the influence, service, and achievements of the Indian American community across generations.

Conveners

Operational Leadership and Community Stewardship

The convener team supports strategic execution, outreach, storytelling, and national coordination.

Manan Raval

Manan Raval

Co-Convener

ENTREPRENEUR, MEDIA EXECUTIVE, AND COMMUNITY VISIONARY

A dynamic entrepreneur and media leader, Manan Raval is the Founder of Bharat Media LLC, a U.S.-based multimedia production and broadcasting company serving Indian American and mainstream audiences since 2019 through Bharat FM, Bharat TV, and Bharat News.

Lalit K. Jha

Lalit K. Jha

Co-Convener

JOURNALIST, EDITOR, AND EXPERT ON U.S.–INDIA AFFAIRS

A veteran journalist and respected media leader, Lalit K. Jha is the Editor (North America) of IndoAsia News Service (IANS) and is widely recognized for his extensive reporting on American politics, foreign policy, national security, and U.S.–India relations.

Pramit Maakoday

Pramit Maakoday

Co-Convener

TECHNOLOGY LEADER, PHILANTHROPIST, AND HEALTHCARE INNOVATOR

A distinguished technology strategist and social impact leader, Pramit Maakoday is the Co-Founder and Director of Indo-US Health Initiatives and continues to strengthen global partnerships and community-driven innovation.

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Support a Historic National Celebration

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