Indian-American activist Swadesh Chatterjee presented with highest state honour in North Carolina

America's former ambassador to India, Rich Verma, said Mr. Chatterjee has been at the centre of the key moments that have brought the Indian and U.S. governments closer

Eminent Indian-American entrepreneur and activist Swadesh Chatterjee, who is known for his immense contribution to strengthening the U.S.-India relationship over the past three decades, has been presented with the highest award by the U.S. State of North Carolina.

North Carolina's Governor Ray Cooper presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to Mr. Chatterjee, 75, at a ceremony on October 21 in Cary, a town in the state.

The governor described Mr. Chatterjee as “a spark plug among us” as he applauded his contribution not only to the development of North Carolina but also to the India-U.S. relationship and enriching the cultural milieu of the United States.

America's former ambassador to India, Rich Verma, said Mr. Chatterjee who received Padma Bhushan from the Indian Government in 2001, has been at the centre of the key moments that have brought the Indian and U.S. governments closer.

Beginning in 2000 when things started to turn upward in the India-U.S. relationship, Mr. Chatterjee “was at the centre of the quintessential events that have defined modern U.S.-India ties”.

The key developments included former president Bill Clinton's trip to India in 2000 when he brought to India a message of hope and renewal in the partnership.

“Swadesh was not only on the trip with the president, but he was also one of the community leaders who made the trip happen,” he said.