Project India

The AIA-NY Chapter - Empowering Communities Through Education, Health & Sustainability

November 4, 2025

Latest Update on AIA Project India Initiatives

The Project India Team of The Association of Indians in America (AIA) / New York Chapter expresses heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors for their continued trust and support. Your contributions are enabling impactful, community-driven initiatives that enhance farmer livelihoods and promote environmental sustainability in India.

With USD 129,000 of funds provided by the Project India Team raised at the event held on July 27, 2025, at Krasnoff Theater, LI, Global Vikas Trust (GVT) will implement two key projects in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra.

Additional USD 10,000 is directed to our long-time partner Gujarat Aids and Prevention (GAAP), Ahmedabad, India towards education and healthcare of adolescent girls in tribal villages.

1. Tree Plantation Project

Budget: Approx. USD 78,000 (₹6.89 million @ exchange rate of 88.375)

Scope: Plantation of ~275,750 fruit trees benefiting 130–150 farmers across 130–150 acres.

Key Activities:

2. River/Tributary Rejuvenation & Water Conservation Project

Budget: Approx. USD 51,000 (₹4.51 million @ exchange rate of 88.375)

Scope: Deepening and widening of a 2.5–3.5 km stretch of tributary/river in Beed District, including 15–18 Global River Aquashafts (GRAs) and vetiver grass plantation on riverbanks.

Key Activities:

Reporting and Donor Recognition

Global Vikas Trust (GVT) will share half-yearly and annual progress reports with final impact assessments.

Donor recognition will be showcased through:

Project India Leadership Team
Manjula Bansal MD
Asmita Bhatia
Smiti Khanna
Divya Shah

What is PROJECT INDIA?

AIA Project India is the philanthropic arm of The Association of Indians in America, established in 1967 with a vision to improve and strengthen understanding between peoples through cultural and social activities. Our organization has dedicated its efforts to support worthy causes in India, with a primary focus on health initiatives, particularly HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

Our Partners

Gujarat AIDS Awareness and Prevention (GAP)

In late 2005, we made a commitment to supporting a renowned NGO called Gujarat AIDS Awareness and Prevention (GAP), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Founded in 1989, GAP is recognized as the pioneer organization in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention and is a lead non-governmental organization serving as a resource center for information, advocacy, and counseling.

The Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC)

In 2006, we proudly partnered with The Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC), well known for its Programs for AIDS Treatment and Health (PATH) Center. TBHC has received state and national recognition for its pioneering work in comprehensive HIV/AIDS care and treatment.

Impact Achievement: Thanks to the generous support of many friends and believers in our cause, we have expanded our activities to reach 20+ villages within 100 km from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where medical assistance is limited. AIA's Project India has contributed over $100,000 to GAP Organization to fully fund the Rural Outreach Program, focused on HIV/AIDS prevention through education and awareness. Our programs have touched the lives of over 600 patients who would not have survived without this financial contribution, the dedicated work of GAP volunteers, and support from medical experts at The Brooklyn Hospital.

Our Strategic Approach

Building Awareness

In 2005, we created, published, and distributed "Hetal-1" and "Hetal-2" informational booklets for adolescents on reproductive and sexual health. These materials have been distributed to more than 6,000 high school students, providing crucial education to young people.

Building Patient Trust

Since 2005, annual trips by physicians from The Brooklyn Hospital Center have made a significant impact in the lives of patients. This mutual trust has resulted in early diagnosis, holistic treatment, and continued care, transforming community health outcomes.

Mobile Medical Unit

Our Mobile Medical Unit, a large transportable tent, serves as a magnet for community activities, including patient examination and treatment. This mobile resource brings essential healthcare directly to underserved villages.

Key Accomplishments

Health Check-up Camps
  • Established patient care centers ensuring confidentiality and trust for patients and families
  • Conducted counseling sessions to provide support to caregivers, including nutrition and hygiene guidance
Home Visits

Critical in motivating patients and monitoring care. We provide counseling, supplementary nutritive food, and hygiene kits. Quarterly monitoring visits ensure physical and mental health support while maintaining the trust-based relationships essential for holistic treatment and continued care.

Treatment & Care

To date, we have provided ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) treatment to over 250 patients, ensuring they receive life-saving medical care and ongoing support.

Information Sessions

Conducted annual lecture series for doctors in ART Centers under the Gujarat State AIDS Control Society, fostering professional development and best practices in HIV/AIDS care.

Looking Ahead - We remain committed to expanding our reach and impact, continuing our mission to provide quality healthcare, education, and support to vulnerable communities in India.

Get in touch

Beena Kothari

President - AIA-NY

Contact Infomation

215, Old Country Road, Deer Park, NY - 11729

631-988-1280

theaianypresident@gmail.com

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