The first Indian Cultural Group (ICG) was formed in 1977 at the Kallang Community Centre (CC), under the auspices of the People's Association (PA). Its main task was to organize and promote Indian cultural activities. The cultural events proved popular and encouraged the formation of the similar groups at other CCs.

In 1987, with the emergence of more ICGs at other CCs, a body was established to co-ordinate their activities under the jurisdiction of the PA. The new body was the People's Association Indian Cultural Groups Co-ordinating Council (PAICGCC).

Over time, the ICGs went beyond cultural pursuits and involved themselves in social, educational, recreational and sports activities. Thus, in 1990, its name was changed to Indian Activity Group (IAG) and the Council was renamed as the People's Association Indian Activity Groups Co-ordinating Council (PAIAGCC).

With the steady growth in the number of IAGs island wide, and in view of its extended role and its participation in a wider range of community related developments enhancing community bonding, as well as the organization of mega events on its own, or jointly with other Grassroots Organisations (GROs), both at the constituency and national levels, the body was renamed in 1998 as the Indian Activity Executive Committee (IAEC) and the Council was called the People's Association Indian Activity Executive Committees Co-ordinating Council.

By the end of 1999, there were 78 IAECs throughout Singapore. Their active involvement in almost all grassroots activities and their networking with other GROs have made their existence and purpose familiar, not only to the Indian community, but also to other communities, particularly in HDB estates. It was therefore decided to give the IAEC and the PAIAECCC a simple and abbreviated nomenclature. The name chosen was "NARPANI" which means "Good Activity". The Council is now known as "NARPANI PEARAVAI" which is "Good Activity Council".

Currently, there are 94 IAECs throughout Singapore.