Indian Ladies Association Elects New Executive Committee
The Indian Ladies Association (ILA) celebrated its Annual Day with a grand Gabga event at Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Seef, marking a significant transition in leadership. Organized by the outgoing executive committee, the event served as both a celebration and a formal handover of responsibilities to the newly elected committee for 2025.
A ceremonial pinning was conducted, symbolizing the official transition of duties. The event was honored by the presence of esteemed representatives from the Indian Embassy to Bahrain, including Mr. Ravi Jain, Mr. Ravi Singh, and Mr. Rajiv Mishra.
This year's celebration was particularly momentous, recognizing Ms. Meena Bhatia's remarkable 50 years of membership in the association. Additionally, the gathering bid an emotional farewell to Ms. Nivedita Dutta, a past president and a dedicated member for over 25 years, as she prepares to leave Bahrain.
Adding to the historical significance of the occasion, the ILA executive committee for 2025 was elected through a democratic electoral process for the first time in the association's 69-year history. The newly appointed team, led by President Smitha Jensen, won their respective board seats in a competitive election.
In her acceptance speech, President Smitha Jensen expressed her gratitude to the members for their trust and support. She outlined her vision for the upcoming year, highlighting plans for engaging activities and workshops aimed at empowering women within the ILA community. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation within the association.
The contributions of the outgoing executive committee of 2024 were acknowledged during the event. The departing leadership included President Kiran Abhijit Mangle, Vice-President Dr. Tejender Kaur Sarna, Treasurer Sheetal Shah, General Secretary Sarmistha Dey, Secretary for Public Relations Zamini Charak, Secretary for Entertainment Rrema Nair, Secretary for Membership Hilda Elizabeth Lobo, Secretary for Operations Smitha Jensen, and Secretary for Activities Dr. Gurpreet Kaur.
Stepping into their new roles for 2025, the incoming executive committee includes President Smitha Jensen, Vice-President Fousia Sulthana, Treasurer Tessy Cherian, General Secretary Vani Sreedhar, Secretary for Public Relations Shilpa Naik, Secretary for Entertainment Sunanda Gaikwad, Secretary for Membership Vijay Lakshmi, Secretary for Operations Anuradha Sampath, and Secretary for Activities Kaihekushan Mohammed Omar Kazi.
The event set a promising tone for the year ahead, with the new leadership committed to strengthening the ILA's role in the community through greater inclusivity, engagement, and empowerment.
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