News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (July 11, 2026 - July 17, 2026) July 17, 2026 14 Cover Story T he American Association of Physicians of Indian origin, AAPI, held its 2026 Convention in Tampa, FL., over five days around the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, as new of- ficeholders took over on July 4th. Held at the JW Marriott and Tampa MarriottWater Street July 2-5, the Convention was a mix of medicine, culture, spirituality, philanthropy, leadership, and calls for more US-India cooperation. New initiatives were announced and achievers recog- nized, along with entertaining evenings and outings. The highlight was the honoring of philanthropist and entrepreneur Nita Ambani of the Reliance Foun- dation who also received AAPI’s Humanitarian Award. And Mayor of Tampa Jane Castor honored Ambani by presenting her a key to the city. Ambani praised Indian American physicians for their achievements and commitment, and urged more US-India cooperation in the field of healthcare. “The relationship between India and the United States has always been strengthened by people — by professionals, innovators, physicians like those in AAPI,” she said. A partnership was announced between Reliance Foundation and AAPI to work on rural healthcare. Another highlight at the event included the honor- ing of Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh’s philan- thropic contributions and leadership in media. Parikh Worldwide Media, of which Dr. Parikh is the Chairman, was also recognized at the event. A notable part of the Convention was Dr. Jagdish Gupta’s donation of $100,000 to the AAPI Global Foun- dation where he will be serving as the Chairman. Dr. Meher Medavaram, who assumed charge as the President of AAPI assured delegates, saying “My vision is to lead AAPI with unity, integrity, inclusion, and pur- pose.” Dr. Vijay Maurya assumed charge as the new Chair- man of the AAPI Board of Trustees, along with new members elected to the Board. “As BOT, our duty is to manage funds conservatively,” he said, underscoring principles of transparency, accountability, and long term sustainability. The outgoing BOT Chair, Dr. Hetal Gor enumerated the many accomplishments under her leadership, es- pecially focusing on the financial stability her team was able to bring. During a special reception, AAPI leaders lauded her achievements. The Continuing Medical Education, CME, sessions were seen as the academic backbone of the convention, covering a wide swathe of healthcare - Lifestyle Medi- cine, Primary Care, Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Cardiology Updates, Substance Abuse, and the Human Microbiome. Young physicians led interesting sessions. The schol- ars from the Medical Students and Research Fellows, MSRF, wing of AAPI, presented research that reflected the next generation’s promise. The Convention also featured exhibits and prod- uct theaters that showcased innovation from leading healthcare partners. Daily Heartfulness meditation sessions added quiet spaces for introspection amid the excitement of a full schedule of events. The convention opened with an invocation and bhajans by Dr. Aarti Pandya. A moving keynote address on the healing power of compassion and service, was delivered by Didi Krishna of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission. Later, a discourse by Siddhguru Sri Sidheshwar Brahmri- shi Guruvar blended philosophy, wellness, and mindful living. Several officeholders of AAPI shared their thoughts about the event, including Convention Chair Dr. Sagar Galwankar; Convention Convener Dr. Raghu Juvvadi; The new President-Elect, Dr. Krishan Kumar; Dr. Sreeni R. Gangasani, President -Elect of AAPI; Dr. Soumya Neravetla, the first ever 2nd generation physician of In- dian origin to reach the position of Secretary; Dr. Raghu Lolabhat, the new Treasurer; At theWomen’s Forum, chaired by Dr. Kavita Jyotula, leading women physicians discussed issues of leader- ship, equity, and empowerment. Tennis star Sania Mirza gave an inspiring speech. And Bollywood star, Vivek Oberoi who shared his experiences working in rural India, and empowering of women. The CEO Forum brought together healthcare execu- tives and thought leaders for conversations about inno- vation, policy, and the future of healthcare delivery. Keynote Speaker, Dr. Achyuta Samanta praised the organization’s global impact, stating, “AAPI stands as a powerful symbol of professional excellence, global lead- ership and dedicated service to humanity.” He added, “AAPI is a vital bridge between India and the United States… guided by the Indian philosophy of ‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’ — the world is one family.” Every evening, attendees enjoyed cultural events and entertainment - nostalgic concert by Kumar Sanu; a lively performance by Vishal–Shekhar; Stand-up come- dian Nimesh Patel brought his cutting humor; Bolly- wood glamour arrived with Vivek Oberoi, and midnight mehfils stretched into the early hours. As is the tradition, fashion shows, Bollywood Zumba, and AAPI’s Got Talent competitions filled the days. The waterfront came alive with bhajans by Dr. Aarti Pandya, a Cruise Night on Tampa Bay with DJ Yatin, soulful ghazals by AM, and a mesmerizing musical per- formance by 11 year old prodigy Pranysqa Mishra, were also highlights at the Convention. Outgoing President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, acknowl- edging the support he received from the team during his tenure, said, “This convention is truly your conven- tion. Its success depends entirely on your presence, your energy, and your participation.” At Tampa Convention, Indian American Physicians Celebrate Milestones On America’s 250th By a StaffWriter From left, AAPI President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Dr. Hetal Gor, AAPI Chair Board of Trustees, a guest, and Dr. Navin Shah. The check for $100,000 donated by Dr. Jagdish Gupta to the AAPI Global foundation of which he is going to serve as Chairman, is being displayed by Dr. Gpta and AAPI leaders. New President of AAPI Dr. Meher Medavaram, 4th from right, and outgoing President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, 3rd from right, pose with executive team members at the AAPI Convention 2026. Incoming President of AAPI Dr. Meher Medavaram, left with outgoing President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, at the AAPI Conven- tion held in Tampa, FL, July 2-5, 2026. PHOTO:AAPI PHOTO:AAPI PHOTO: ITV GOLD PHOTO: ITV GOLD