BY AJAY GHOSH
Belagavi, Karnataka, December 23, 2024: Honorable President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will inaugurate the newly constructed Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital on December 30, 2024. The state-of-the-art facility, built in Belagavi, Karnataka, is the realization of a lifelong dream of Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a distinguished Indian American physician, philanthropist, and community leader.
Dr. Shivangi, who donated his family fortune to establish the hospital, shared the significance of this initiative, saying, “During my years in hospitals as a student, resident, and staff, I was devastated by the lack of accessible cancer care in my hometown. Many patients had to travel hundreds of miles, often unable to afford the costs. This hospital is a step towards addressing those challenges and providing equitable healthcare.”
Dr. Shivangi’s philanthropic journey spans decades and continents. Through the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation, he has established schools, community halls, and healthcare facilities in India, while also supporting the Hindu community in the U.S. by helping establish a temple in Jackson, Mississippi. His contributions to healthcare and community welfare have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award and the Ellis Medal of Honor.
The new cancer hospital is designed to provide world-class oncology care to underserved communities. Dr. Shivangi emphasized the importance of collaboration in bringing this vision to fruition, adding, “This project took years of planning and reflection, and it is deeply gratifying to see it become a reality.”
The hospital’s inauguration has drawn widespread admiration. BS Raju, BJP Vice President from Bangalore, praised Dr. Shivangi’s efforts, stating, “You are a true inspiration, sir, just like Abdul Kalam. Born in a small rural place and making it big in the USA is truly inspirational. Wishing you more success, happiness, and good health.”
Dr. Shivangi urged others to follow his example, particularly the Indian American physician community. “My humble request is that let us be the change and bring this movement to make our world different tomorrow,” he said.
The event will also highlight Dr. Shivangi’s broader vision for societal transformation, focusing on education, mental health awareness, healthcare equity, tribal support, women’s empowerment, and sports development.
As the first Indian American to serve on the Board of the Mississippi State Department of Mental Health, Dr. Shivangi has been a leader in mental health advocacy and Indo-U.S. relations. His efforts have included significant contributions to the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement and lifting sanctions against India during President Bill Clinton’s administration.
