A former Fijian citizen and Auckland resident, Dr. Satendra Singh has been awarded the prestigious Pravasi Bhartiya Award by the President of India, His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee alongside 14 others from 112 nations.
The Pravasi Divas (a convention) is hosted by the Indian Government every year and is the highest civilian award India offers to its non residents and persons of Indian origin.
Dr. Singh has been recognized for 40 years of his service in promoting links with India.
He has worked closely with Fiji's former Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara and former Deputy Prime Minister Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau as well as accompanying him to India in 1971 where Fiji/India links were discussed.
Dr Singh has been the first Fiji Indian appointed justice of peace in New Zealand in 1979.
Dr. Singh has also been honored twice by Queen Elizabeth II for services to New Zealand and to promoting India and Fiji.
He has led many fund-raising efforts for Fiji in the past, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Story by: Praneeta Prakash
