We are pleased to share that on February 26th, a delegation of JAINA leaders had the honor of meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence in New Delhi for over 40 minutes. This significant meeting provided an opportunity to present JAINA’s unique organizational virtues, achievements, and global outreach, while also emphasizing the contributions of the Jain community.

(At Honorable PM residence - From LEFT JAINA President Bindesh Shah, Govt Liaison chair Sharad Doshi, Honorable Indian PM Narendra Modiji, JAINA FirstVP Atul Shah, Hitesh Doshi)

Meeting started with the JAINA President Bindesh Shah highlighting the core values and JAINA vision that define the NA Jain community’s non-sectarian approach, collective wisdom of uniting, and commitment to various community initiatives. He eloquently shared need & ongoing efforts by JAINA to engage global Jain diaspora communities for the Jain unity. The interactive discussion with Honorable PM focused on JAINA’s efforts in social welfare, education, cultural preservation, youth engagement, interfaith dialogue, and the preservation of Jain Tirths, particularly in terms of greening and cleaning sacred sites. The delegation exchanged insights on these initiatives and plans to showcase them in the coming months.

(Gifting NAMO design Solar Panel)

Important milestone of the meeting was the formal invitation to Prime Minister Modi for the upcoming JAINA Convention in Chicago by convention Convener & JAINA first VP Atul Shah. He elaborated JAINA convention activities & benefits. All JAINA delegates traveled from the USA to New Delhi specifically for this important engagement. Prime Minister Modi expressed his support and assured the delegation of a dedicated channel of assistance during the convention to enhance engagement, promote unity, and development within the global Jain community. Hiteshbhai Doshi from Mumbai India also accompanied the JAINA delegation. 

 (Gifting Golden Parshwanath memento, JAINA commemorative Pin)

Sharad N. Doshi, Chairperson for Governmental & Public Affairs at JAINA North America, emphasized the long-term vision for expanding US-India trade opportunities for the Jain diaspora whose entrepreneurial strength can foster deeper economic collaborations by creating new pathways for trade, investment, and business partnerships. In his remarks, Sharad Doshi highlighted the substantial contributions of Jain entrepreneurs. During the meeting, Sharad Doshi also updated Prime Minister Modi on the new Jain temple being built by the Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington, which will host its Pratishta Mahotsav in May 2025 to which the Honorable Prime Minister expressed interest in visiting during his future travels.

This historic meeting was made possible through the dedicated leadership and strategic efforts of JAINA Government Liaison Committee Chair Sharad N. Doshi, along with the invaluable support of the Indian Embassy team, both played pivotal role in facilitating this engagement, ensuring a successful dialogue between JAINA and the Indian government.

This engagement marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the Jain community and the Indian government, fostering greater mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to societal well-being. JAINA looks forward to the continued support and active participation of our community members as we work towards building a strong, united, and non-sectarian Jain community—one that our future generations can take pride in, contributing to the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world as one family)