The Bharatiya Samman recipients were selected by a jury headed by the editor of The Hindu, N Ram. The awards were instituted to recognise meritorious contribution by non-resident Indians and people of Indian origin to further India's interests and cause.
Although 15 oversees Indians were chosen for the awards, only 11 were present at the ceremony.
Hong Kong based businessman M Arunachalam (left) is chairman of the Indian Chambers of Commerce and president of the Asia Pacific Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, in which capacity he has made significant efforts to promote trade and investment between Hong Kong and India as also between China and India.
Technocrat Dr Sam Pitroda(right) is the man who ushered the telecom revolution in India.
He was chief technology advisor to Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and was given the responsibility of spearheading several Technology Missions to enhance quality of life, basic amenities and connectivity in the rural sector.
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