Washington: Indian Ambassador to the United States, Ronen Sen has condoled the death of veteran journalist Gopal Raju, the founder the first successful ethnic newspaper India Abroad in the United States. The 80-year-old Raju was suffering from jaundice and was admitted to hospital about a week ago. He died from the complication of the disease in New York yesterday.

"I am deeply distressed to learn of the sad demise of Gopal Raju. He had several accomplishments to his credit as a veteran journalist with impeccable credentials," Sen said in a statement. Besides, the India Abroad, Raju also founded the Indo-Asian News Service (IANS), the Indian American Foundation (IAF) and the Indian American Center for Political Action to bring political awareness among the younger generation of Indian Americans.

After selling India Abroad, he became publisher of News-India Times, Desi Talk and Gujarat Times.

"In recognition of his multi-faceted and exemplary contributions, he had been conferred with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award in 2007. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and to his many friends, colleagues and admirers," the top Indian Envoy said.

Source : PTI