NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
New Delhi / January 27, 2026: Three distinguished Indian-Americans have been named among the recipients of India’s prestigious Padma Awards 2026, the Government of India announced on the eve of Republic Day. The honours recognize outstanding contributions in medicine and sports, and will be conferred by the President of India at a ceremonial function later this year.
Padma Bhushan for Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu
Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori, a renowned radiation oncologist based in the United States, has been awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, for his lifelong service to medicine.
Born in Mantada village in Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Nori trained at Kurnool Medical College and Osmania Medical College before moving to the United States, where he built a distinguished career in cancer care. He is widely recognized as a leader in brachytherapy — a targeted form of radiation therapy — and has pioneered techniques that have improved treatment outcomes for many cancer patients. Beyond clinical innovation, Dr. Nori has advised government and health organizations on cancer prevention and care strategies. He was previously awarded the Padma Shri in 2015 for his contributions to medicine.
Padma Bhushan for Vijay Amritraj
Vijay Amritraj, one of India’s most celebrated tennis players, has also been honoured with the Padma Bhushan.
Born in Madras (now Chennai) in 1953, Amritraj became a global ambassador for Indian sport during his professional tennis career. He reached the quarterfinals at both Wimbledon and the US Open, won numerous titles, and captained India’s Davis Cup team. After retiring from competition, he became a respected sports commentator and broadcaster. Amritraj has also worked in film and served as a United Nations Messenger of Peace, advocating for health and social causes. He was earlier honoured with the Padma Shri in 1983 and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2024.
Padma Shri for Dr. Prateek Sharma
Dr. Prateek Sharma has been named a Padma Shri recipient for his contributions to medicine.
Dr. Sharma, a leading Indian-American gastroenterologist, is internationally recognized for his work in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal diseases and cancers. His efforts include advancing imaging and endoscopic techniques that help detect conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus and early-stage gastrointestinal cancer, improving patient outcomes. Dr. Sharma’s leadership in medical research and his role in professional healthcare organisations have brought him wide recognition in the field.
The Padma Awards — comprising the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri — are among the highest civilian honours in India. They are announced annually on Republic Day and celebrate distinguished service across medicine, arts, sports, science, public affairs, and other fields. In 2026, a total of 131 awardees were selected.
