GOPIO Welcomes SF Consul Dr. Reddy, Audience Presses For Consulate In LA
India-West Staff Reporter
ORANGE, CA – The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), along with its local chapters, hosted a warm welcome event for the newly appointed Consul General of India in San Francisco, Dr. K Srikar Reddy. The event on October 29 took place at the Banquet Hall of Tandoor restaurant here and drew participation from over 50 community organizations.
Reddy addressed the gathering and shared insights into his journey to the Indian Foreign Service. Despite his background in medicine, he spoke passionately about his lifelong dream to work in the Indian Foreign Service and how that aspiration led him to his current position.
During his address, Dr. Reddy highlighted the growing collaboration between India and the US, emphasizing that the bilateral relationship is currently at its peak. He acknowledged the essential role of Indian consulates in fostering a positive relationship with the Indian American community and spoke about streamlining processes such as passport renewals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) matters. Dr. Reddy also revealed that the San Francisco consulate plans to print OCIs locally for quicker issuance.
In a promising development for the Indian American community, Reddy announced that the Indian government is planning to open two more consulates in areas with significant Indian American populations. The first of these new consulates will be located in Seattle, WA, with the second location still under review. His announcement generated enthusiasm among the attendees, many of whom urged him to consider the Los Angeles area for the second consulate. They recommended Artesia, known as “Little India,” as the most suitable location due to its thriving Indian American community and businesses.
The event also featured a question-and-answer session, providing attendees with the opportunity to ask specific questions about matters such as OCIs, passports, visas, and collaborating with the Consulate to celebrate Indian cultural functions. Reddy responded to these queries, providing clarity and addressing concerns.
The evening concluded with dinner, providing a perfect opportunity for attendees to network and continue discussions about the Indian American community’s future collaborations with the consulate and the strengthening of India-US ties.
