Sir Oliver Dowden MP and Koolesh Shah have taken charge as the new co-chairs of the Conservative Friends of India (CF India) diaspora organisation, following the retirement of Ameet Jogia MBE and Reena Ranger OBE at the end of an intense few years for the Tories.
During their tenure, CF India established itself as one of the largest and most active Conservative Party friend groups. Their term coincided with a period of unprecedented growth, with membership numbers hitting highs, a factor seen as influential in Rishi Sunak’s Tory leadership campaign ahead of his entry to 10 Downing Street.
CF India became known for packed conference receptions, which were among sought-after events in the Conservative Party calendar. The duo organised numerous high-profile events featuring senior Cabinet ministers, including multiple engagements with prime ministers to reinforce the strong connection between the Tories and the British Indian community during the party’s term in government.
In a joint message to members, Jogia and Ranger said: "It has been a profound honour to serve this organisation and champion the unique and enduring bond between the Conservative Party and the British Indian community.
“We are proud of what we have achieved together. During our time as co-chairs, we've had the privilege of working alongside some extraordinary individuals within both the Conservative Party and the British Indian community.
“The relationships we've cultivated between Westminster and British Indian communities across the UK have strengthened the Conservative movement and amplified diverse voices within our party. We take particular pride in our contributions during Rishi Sunak's historic premiership, which symbolised the progress and potential of British Indians in public service.
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“As we step aside after completing our term, we do so with immense gratitude to all of you: our members, supporters, and friends. You have all helped make this journey so rewarding. Conservative Friends of India is in a strong position, and we look forward to seeing it grow further under new leadership."
Sir Oliver is a senior Conservative parliamentarian who has held several key positions in government, including deputy prime minister, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. A longstanding friend of the British Indian community, the MP has consistently championed the values of enterprise, family and opportunity – foundations of CF India’s mission.
Entrepreneur and philanthropist Koolesh Shah is the founder of the London Town Group. CF India notes that he has been recognised for his charitable work and commitment to community empowerment and brings a strong voice from British Indian business to his new role.
Their joint appointment reflects CF India’s continued commitment to fostering stronger ties between the Conservative Party and the British Indian community — both in the UK and globally, the group said.
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In a joint message, the new co-chairs stated: “It is a privilege to take on this responsibility and build on the outstanding work of Ameet and Reena. Conservative Friends of India plays a vital role in ensuring that the voice of the British Indian community is heard, valued, and represented in the political mainstream.
“We are committed to deepening that engagement, supporting the next generation of leaders, and continuing to celebrate the values we share — from entrepreneurship to public service, and from community cohesion to our enduring ties with India.”
*Info: CF India