Indian duo awarded New Zealand Order of Merit for work in tech and community
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Two Indian-origin professionals , Sunit Prakash and Lalita Kasanji , have been named Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the King's Birthday 2025 Honours List. This recognition comes for their contributions to the digital technology sector and their efforts to support community development in New Zealand. The honour also marks a first for the Indian diaspora in the country, with no other Indian-origin individual previously receiving the title in the field of IT services, according to a report by the Times of India.Prakash and Kasanji were jointly recognised for their work in bridging digital ties between India and New Zealand. In 2023, they co-founded the New Zealand Centre for Digital Connections with India, which aims to promote technology-driven collaboration between the two countries. Their research showed that Indian IT professionals contribute more than NZ$350 million annually to New Zealand's economy. The couple also called for a government-backed Digital and IT Trade Delegation to India to further strengthen bilateral tech ties Speaking on the recognition, Prakash said to TOI, 'Sunlight is a powerful disinfectant, and we are bringing a magnifying glass.' Kasanji reflected on their journey, saying, 'Till Sunit and I met, Digital India and new Indians were invisible to this country. That perception has now begun to change.' She added that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's recent visit to India played a role in changing how India's tech presence is viewed in New Zealand.The couple's recognition is significant within the broader context of New Zealand's efforts to deepen economic and digital cooperation with India. Since 1995, only about 15 people have received honours in the IT sector, making their inclusion a notable development for the Indian-origin community. Their work not only reflects the growing contribution of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand's tech economy but also highlights the importance of cross-border digital collaboration.Sunit Prakash holds an MBA from NMIMS in Mumbai and has worked in leadership roles for global tech firms across Asia-Pacific. He is also a published author. Lalita Kasanji, with a master's degree in sociology from Victoria University of Wellington , has served with the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and contributes to several business and community boards. Their professional backgrounds have supported their advocacy for greater representation and inclusion of Indian-origin professionals in New Zealand's digital landscape.(With inputs from TOI)
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