Indian-Americans on Saturday hailed the election of Michael Steele as the first black chairman of the Republican party, hoping that it will increase participation of minorities in the US political process.

"Election of Steele once again affirms that political scene in America has changed," said Ashok Mago, chairman of the USINDIA Forum.

"This election is bigger surprise for many than that of President (Barack) Obama," he said.

Welcoming the election of Steele, Shampat Shivangi, Indian-American Republican leader said: "Electing Steele is a historic occasion."

Both Mago and Shivangi believed that such a development would attract Indian-Americans to the Republican National Party.

"Traditionally Democratic Party has attracted higher number of minorities including the Indian-Americans. But election of Michael Steele and Governor Bobby Jindal's affiliation to the Republican Party should encourage more Indian-Americans to consider joining the Republican Party," Mago said.

"I think, Steele will bring rainbow coalition of all minorities in the US. He will bring a new approach and would be inclusive. Steele coming into chairmanship is a great asset to the Party," Shivangi said.

Mago hoped Steel's election will increase participation of minorities in political process. "Now there is no reason for them not to aim for all kind of opportunities at the highest level," he said.