New Jersey, USA: New Jersey, December 18, 2024: Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old student from Chennai, was named Miss India USA 2024 at the prestigious pageant held by the India Festival Committee. The event, held in New Jersey, celebrated the talent, beauty, and accomplishments of young Indian American women from across the nation.

Caitlin moved to the United States 14 years ago and is currently studying at the University of California, Davis. Besides her academic pursuits, Caitlin has a passion for web design and aspires to build a career in both modeling and acting. She is also dedicated to community service, with a focus on women’s empowerment and literacy.

The first runner-up title went to Nirali Desai from Illinois, while Manini Patel from New Jersey secured the second runner-up position. The competition brought together a varied group of contestants, each presenting their distinct skills and stories.

Caitlin’s victory underscores her dedication and versatile talents, marking an important milestone in her journey. In her acceptance speech, she expressed, "It is a great honor and source of excitement for me to represent Indian American women and contribute positively to the community."

In a related event, Dhruvi Patel, a student specializing in computer information systems, was crowned Miss India Worldwide 2024. The Miss India USA pageant serves as a precursor to the global Miss India Worldwide competition, celebrating Indian heritage and excellence on an international platform.

The India Festival Committee, which has organized the pageant annually since 1980, provides a platform for young women of Indian descent to showcase their talents, nurture cultural pride, and chase their dreams. This year’s event upheld the tradition of empowering young Indian American women while fostering a sense of community and cultural connection.