Hundreds of Physicians and Global Leaders to Convene in Bhubaneswar, January 9–11, 2026
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) is set to host its 19th Annual Global Health Summit (GHS) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 9 to 11, 2026. This landmark event, drawing hundreds of physicians, researchers, and policymakers from across the globe, will serve as a pivotal forum to address India’s most urgent health challenges: Tuberculosis (TB), Diabetes, the integration of Ayurveda with modern medicine, and the adoption of cutting-edge health technology.
Uniting Medical Minds to Advance Healthcare Access
AAPI’s mission centers on making quality healthcare affordable and accessible in India. “Our goal is to strengthen medical collaboration and foster innovation that truly impacts lives,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI and Chairman of the summit. Renowned for bridging the Indian and US medical communities, the summit will build on this foundation by promoting joint research, mentorship, and the exchange of expertise in oncology, cardiology, infectious diseases, and preventive medicine.
Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Hon. Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, serves as Chief Patron, with an organizing committee of Odisha’s leading healthcare figures, including Dr. Sita Kantha Dash (Chairman, Kalinga Hospital Ltd.), Dr. S. Santosh Kumar Dora (CEO, Kalinga Hospital Ltd.), and Dr. Ajit K. Mohanty (Director General, KIMS). “Bringing together such distinguished leaders ensures the summit benefits from a global viewpoint while addressing local health needs,” noted Dr. Chakrabarty.
Summit Themes: TB Eradication, Diabetes Management, Ayurveda Integration, and Innovation
The summit will focus on three major themes: eradicating Tuberculosis, advancing Diabetes care, and integrating Ayurveda into mainstream medicine. AAPI is pledging active support for the national TB-Free Tribal India campaign, spearheaded by Dr. Manoj Jain. “Our collaboration aims to accelerate progress toward a TB-free India, especially in tribal communities,” said Dr. Jain.
Diabetes initiatives, led by Dr. Smitha Joshi, will highlight advances in management and prevention. Meanwhile, the Ayurveda Consortium, coordinated by Dr. Amit Shah and Dr. Arti Prasad, will explore the synergy between traditional practices and contemporary healthcare. “We believe Ayurveda can complement modern medicine and help address chronic diseases more holistically,” remarked Dr. Shah.
Innovation is a cornerstone of the summit, with sessions spotlighting the role of artificial intelligence and digital health tools in revolutionizing diagnostics and patient care. “Technology is transforming healthcare delivery, enabling us to reach more patients, faster and more effectively,” stated Dr. Santosh Kumar Dora.
Academic Excellence and Distinguished Participation
AAPI’s Global Health Summit is lauded for its academic rigor, featuring keynote addresses and sessions led by top physicians and researchers from India and abroad. Topics will span new medical advancements, Continuing Medical Education (CME), Evidence-Based Learning (ELS), research methodology, and scientific writing. “Our summit is a launchpad for innovative ideas and medical breakthroughs,” said Dr. Ajit K. Mohanty.
Medical students will have the opportunity to participate in Medical Jeopardy competitions and present research posters, fostering scientific exchange and professional growth. The event is expected to welcome high-level dignitaries, including the President, Prime Minister, and Health Minister of India, alongside professors, deans, and National Medical Board members, underscoring its national significance.
Addressing Broader Health and Social Challenges
Expanding beyond clinical medicine, the 2026 summit will tackle chronic disease prevention, rural health disparities, climate change effects, and other global health concerns. The CEO Forum will confront issues such as healthcare equity, ethics, and physician burnout, and the Women’s Forum will examine gender bias and leadership in medicine.
“We are committed to addressing not just diseases, but the systemic challenges that impact health outcomes,” affirmed Dr. Meher Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI.
Special sessions will address mental health, childhood obesity, non-communicable disease prevention, and community CPR training, reflecting AAPI’s holistic approach to public health.
The summit will also showcase the Collaboration to Eliminate TB in India (CETI), with support from the CDC and USAID, sharing updates on TB elimination strategies and future engagement.
Industry, Academia, and Global Partnerships
AAPI’s summit acts as a unique nexus for industry and academia. Healthcare companies will present their latest technologies and services via exhibits and product theaters, while academic sessions, chaired by leading physicians, will encourage the launch of collaborative projects. “This is a catalyst for impactful partnerships and real-world solutions,” said Dr. Sita Kantha Dash.
Global collaboration will be furthered through alumni networking, strategic partnerships with Indian institutions, and the recognition of outstanding achievements via the AAPI Awards. With hundreds of US and international physicians participating, new alliances and projects are anticipated to emerge from the summit.
Odisha: A Symbolic and Strategic Venue
Odisha’s selection as host is both symbolic and practical. The state’s robust healthcare infrastructure, supported by renowned institutions like KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, provides an ideal setting for advancing medical education and healthcare delivery. “Hosting the summit in Odisha enables us to bring lasting benefits to the region and foster meaningful local collaborations,” said Dr. Dr Rabi Samanta.
Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
Community outreach is integral to the summit, with public health education, preventive screenings, and awareness campaigns planned, especially targeting underserved rural and tribal populations. “Improving health outcomes requires engaging communities directly,” emphasized Dr. Arti Prasad. AAPI’s ongoing efforts in public health underscore its commitment to social responsibility.
Legacy and Future Vision
Since its inception in 2007, AAPI’s Global Health Summit has played a crucial role in strengthening Indian healthcare. The 2026 summit is poised to be a milestone, influencing policy, shaping future health agendas, and reinforcing AAPI’s legacy as a bridge between India and the United States. “AAPI GHS is an unmatched opportunity to connect with leaders shaping the future of healthcare,” concluded Dr. Medavaram. “We look forward to launching new initiatives and continuing the legacy of our organization’s leaders.”
Registration and more details are available at www.aapiusa.org. Physicians and healthcare professionals worldwide are invited to join the summit in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, January 9–11, 2026, and help define the future of global health. For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org