The Establishment of EASA

The association born in the 1960s as Videsh Mantralaya Mahila Sabha, gained formal recognition as the External Affairs Wives Association (EAWA) in 1971. The official foundation of the External Affairs Wives Association is considered to be on 4th July 1971 when the organisation received its formal certificate of registration. However, informal gatherings and discussions, in smaller groups, had been taking place well before this date. Members of that era recall a string sense of camaraderie and shared experiences, particularly among the spouses of diplomatic personnel. During the 1950s and 1960s, officers and spouses navigated a system that was still in its formative stages, gradually contributing to the establishment of structured guidelines and a more defined role for a formal association.

Prior to formalisation, the group was informally referred to as “IFS Wives”. In due course and after careful deliberation, the name EAWA was adopted, signifying a more inclusive identity.

One of EAWA’s earliest and most impactful initiatives was its humanitarian response during Bangladesh crisis of 1971. The newly formed association mobilised extensive fundraising efforts, successfully raising sufficient finds to procure five ambulances. These ambulances, prominently marked with the EAWA insignia, were among the first to be dispensed to Bangladesh, providing critical medical assistance in the aftermath of the conflict. The late Mrs Urmila (P.N.) Haldar played a pivotal role in spearheading and coordinating this effort, demonstrating the association’s commitment to social responsibility from its inception.

In October 1977, EAWA passes a resolution to create a Public Charitable Trust. The Trust Deed was registered with the Income -Tax office on 12th May 1978.

We gratefully acknowledge the hardwork and dedication of our past presidents and Committee Members who have guided EAWA in the previous years.

EAWA was renamed EASA in 2001 to better reflect its diverse membership and expanded scope.