India Abroad Person of the Year 2012, a milestone

US Congressman Ami Bera, right, and USAID Administrator Raj Shah, left, at the India Abroad Person of the Year Awards 2012 at The Pierre in New York City.

After creating history in two very pivotal areas of governance, they created history at the awards -- one of the most coveted of the Indian-American community -- with India Abroad choosing two India Abroad Persons of the Year for the first time.

It coincided with the 10th anniversary of the awards.

Click next for the Winners' Gallery

From the Editors

Ami Bera, for creating legislative history; for inspiring future generations and for starting a fresh conversation in democracy.

From the Editors

Raj Shah, for being an outstanding leader; for his commitment to the advancement of human dignity; and for leading America's quest for bringing hope to those who need it most.

From the Editors

Natwar Gandhi, for his exemplary contribution to public administration; for being a master-craftsmen of finance and for ushering the nation's capital into an era of prosperity.

From the Editors

Romesh Wadhwani, for his remarkable philanthropy; for being an accomplished entrepreneur and for generously giving back to the country of his birth and, indeed the world.

From the Editors

Amrit Singh, for her bold work in exposing human rights violation; for bravely asking uncomfortable questions and for demanding accountability from the American State.

From the Editors

Raj Chetty, for being one of the world's most brilliant economists; for pushing the frontiers of economic thought; and for being a true genius poised for greater glory.

From the Editors

Sambhu Banik, for being a pioneering community leader; for being a voice for the mentally challenged and for his lifelong dedication to service.

From the Editors

Valarie Kaur, for making her law degree and film camera her 'sword and shield;' for drawing wisdom from her heritage and for being a soldier of the Sikh community. 

From the Editors

Nithin Tumma, for his spectacular breakthrough in breast cancer research; for being a teenage science sensation and for the hope he holds for future innovations.

From the Editors

Deepika Kurup, for being America's top young scientist; for her innovative solution for purifying water and for pursuing an idea that can save millions of lives across the world.

From the Editors

Snigdha Nandipati, for being the wizard of words; for continuing an Indian American winning streak and for consolidating a tradition of excellence.

From the Editors

Rahul Nagvekar, for his emphatic dominion on the map of the world; for his wide-ranging interest across cultures and for being a phenomenal first-time contender.

From the Editors

Marshall Bouton, for his enduring commitment spanning five decades; for being an articulate spokesperson and an extraordinary cheerleader for India.