“American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI) had a powerful weekend of celebration, service, and community, as we honored India’s 79th Independence Day in the heart of New York City,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI. “We were fortunate to be part of and led the ‘I Love My India Float Parade’ – Celebrating Our Heritage from Raipath to Times Square.Azadi Ke Rang, AAPI Ke Sang.”
To spread the message of health and wellness for all and salute India on the occasion of India’s Independence Day anniversary, leaders of AAPI marched at the India Day Parade in New York City on Sunday, August 17th, 2022. Applause from the crowds reached a crescendo as the colorfully decorated Float bearing AAPI’s name, symbol, and message of health and wellness to all rolled on in New York City on a bright Sunday afternoon.
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI along with several Executive Committee Members, Dr. Hetal Gor, Chair of AAPI BOT; Regional Directors, members of BOT from different parts of the country joined the over a hundred thousand fellow Indian Americans to be part of the largest India Day Parade, organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).
Several AAPI leaders, including Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Dr. Hetal Gor, Dr. Mehar Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI; Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President of AAPI; Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary of AAPI; Dr. Anjali Gulati, and Sunita Polepalle, members of AAPI BOT, Dr. Avinash C. Gupta, Mid-Atlantic II Regional Director; Dr. Gautam Kamthan, President, YPS; and, Dr. Priyanka Kolli,President, MSRF were prominent among those who led the parade.
“What an extraordinary outpouring of love and pride we’ve witnessed this Independence Day,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty. “From coast to coast, your enthusiasm has lit up our celebrations with the spirit of unity, heritage, and hope. The overwhelming response to our events deeply moves us—each moment is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of our AAPI community.”
Standing on the Salute Stage with Parade Co-Grand Marshals, Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, along with Congressman Sri Thanedar (MI-13) and several FIA leaders, who led the 43rd Annual India Day Parade along Madison Avenue, Dr. Chakrabarty said, “Since its inception in 1982, AAPI has been at the forefront, representing a conglomeration of more than 125,000 practicing physicians in the United States, seeking to be the united voice for the physicians of Indian origin. Serving 1 in every 7 patients in the US, AAPI members care for millions of patients every day, while several of them have risen to hold high positions, shaping the policies and programs, and inventions that shape the landscape of healthcare in the US and around the world. Our participation at the Parade in New York City celebrating India’s 70th Independence Day is a testament to AAPI’s commitment to the Indian Diaspora, contributing to building stronger platforms for Indian-origin physicians in the US.”
Earlier, on Saturday, August 16th, AAPI organized a Press Conference and Leadership Retreat at the Indian Consulate – an exclusive dialogue with AAPI leaders and Corporate Leaders, eloquently moderated by Dr. Hetal Gor, AAPI BOT Chair.
In his brief remarks, Consul General of India, Honorable Binaya Srikanta Pradhan praised the achievements and contributions of Indian American Physicians. “AAPI is one of the strongest organizations in the United States. And an impactful organization,” he said. “In India, the decision makers and policy makers know about AAPI and what AAPI has done over the years, especially about the role being played in strengthening the Indo-US relationship.” He highlighted the many contributions and achievements of Indian American physicians and how India is emerging as the hub for medical technology, the pharmaceutical industry, and affordable health care through national Insurance schemes.
Panelists at the Retreat were: Anil Bansal, a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader, best known as the Founder and Chairman of Indus American Bank; Bhavdeep Singh, a seasoned business leader with a strong track record in healthcare, retail, and professional services; and, Parag Amin is a visionary entrepreneur, inventor, and technologist with decades of experience across technology, finance, real estate, retail, and hospitality.
Bansal, a visionary businessman, who owns commercial real estate across the U.S. and invests in numerous IT ventures, who is committed to community service, and a recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman by the President of India in 2023, shared with the audience his growth trajectory in leadership and his deep commitment to the community.
Singh, the Founder & CEO of Global MedTeam, a healthcare workforce solutions firm focused on bridging international talent with U.S. healthcare providers to address critical staffing shortages, and a Founding Partner at Whitehawk Associates LLC, offering strategic counsel across sectors, shared with AAPI leaders his deep insights into what makes a leader strong and help grow one’s business endeavors.
Amin, President and Principal of Radiqal, a global tech company specializing in gaming, digital television, and interactive platforms, and oversees its Indian subsidiary, who co-manages multiple ventures including Radial Properties and the Mexican Post restaurant chain, in his address focused on how Innovations have shaped the global growth and India is today, the hub of new technologies and development.
The Panelists at the Leadership Retreat focused on the challenges faced in leadership, emphasizing the importance of finding creative solutions to overcome these difficulties. They highlighted that the true leadership demands not just vision, but the creative resolve to transform obstacles into opportunities. The essence of effective leadership lies in empowering every member, cultivating unity, and fostering trust through transparency and credibility.
Dr. Hetal Gor, who organized and moderated the session, said, “The attendees greatly valued the panelists’ insights on effective leadership, resulting in a session extension from 90 to 150 minutes. Each speaker shared their unique leadership style, experiences across various projects, and how qualities like resilience and hard work contributed to their success. The panel provided global perspectives on entrepreneurship, strategies to launch ideas, secure government grants, and practical advice for physicians to broaden their expertise and improve financial literacy.” Dr. Gor expressed gratitude to AAPI President Amit Chakrabarty, the panelists, the Indian Consulate, Andaz for catering, and Kunal Lamba and Dr. Aarti Pandya for the entertainment.
Dr. Mehar Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI, reflecting on the Retreat, said, “When leaders encourage free exchange of ideas and support bold solutions, they enable teams to rise together, motivated by the belief that empowered individuals drive collective success. It is this spirit of collaboration, resilience, and empowerment that shapes AAPI into a vibrant force for positive change, allowing each member to contribute their unique strengths to achieve ambitious goals.” She spoke about the four areas where AAPI is focused on: Education, Mentoring, Advocacy, and Community Service.
On the auspicious day of Janmasthami, August 16th, AAPI leaders participated in a pilgrimage, “Pathways to Peace – Akshardham Visit – A spiritual delegation experience.” The Akshardham Temple management graciously arranged a complimentary private tour of the temple, exclusively for AAPI. Pujya Yogananddas Swami and Pujya Nilkanthsevadas Swami, enshrined in the delegation, a core message: “Whatever we do, do it with purpose and good intentions!”
This special gesture reflects their deep respect for our community and the shared values of spirituality, service, and cultural heritage. This curated experience offered a serene and meaningful opportunity to explore the temple’s divine architecture, engage in sacred rituals, and deepen our collective connection to dharma and devotion.
On Friday, August 14th, AAPI leaders joined several community leaders for the “Tricolor Triumph Over Manhattan,” as the Empire State Building lit up in saffron, white & green.
On Sunday Evening, Aug. 17th, several AAPI leaders joined the FIA Dinner at the famous Cipriani Wall Street, wrapping up the weekend with elegance and unity.
Dr. Krishan Kumar reminded AAPI members that through organizing such events, “We are continuing to make AAPI a more dynamic and vibrant organization playing a meaningful and relevant part in advocating health policies and practices that best serve the interests of all patients and promoting the physician’s role as leaders of the team-based health care delivery.”
Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary of AAPI, “This is another example of our ongoing efforts to make AAPI a mainstream organization and work on issues affecting healthcare delivery, spreading the message of health and wellbeing for all, while leveraging the strength of 100,000 Indian American physicians.”
A record number of people thronged the sidewalks, filling Madison Avenue from 38th to 24th Streets at the heart of New York City, cheering jubilantly as the floats portraying the rich heritage of India and the rise of India as a world power, meandered through the Big Apple. The crowds acknowledged the contributions and achievements of the Physicians of the Indian Diaspora and their motherland, India.
“Let’s show the world the power of unity, culture, and service as we walk together in honor of India’s independence and our shared journey in America,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty in his closing remarks.
Dr. Chakrabarty thanked Dr. Hetal Gor for organizing and leading the insightful Leadership Retreat. “The panelists were outstanding, and there was so much to learn from them as leaders. Thanks to Consulate General of India, New York, for hosting this event. It was an awesome experience participating in India’s Independence Day celebrations in New York City. Thanks to FIA for organizing the parade, and we are proud of AAPI, representing 120,000 American physicians of Indian origin!”
Organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY/NJ/CT), the annual parade, the colorful celebrations at the heart of New York City were a way of honoring Mother India by the Indian American community, showcasing the achievements of the 4 million Indians in the United States. For more details on AAPI, please visit: http://www.aapiusa.org
Vinay Mahajan’s professional journey commenced with foundational roles at ICL and DCM Infotech Limited, followed by 38 years as an entrepreneur. After earning an engineering degree from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, and an MBA from the Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi, Mahajan ventured into diverse arenas—IT hardware, manufacturing, software, telecom services, and most recently, data and artificial intelligence.
fosters U.S.-India business cooperation and supports entrepreneurship within diaspora communities.
During the convention, attended by over 1,000 delegates from across the nation, Dr. Amit Chakrabarty assumed charge as the President of AAPI. During a solemn ceremony, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the outgoing President of AAPI, passed on the gavel to Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, marking a new chapter of service, collaboration, and vision. Dr. Meher Medavaram, President-Elect; Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President; Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary; and Dr. Soumya Neravetla, Treasurer, assumed charge as part of the new Executive Committee. Dr. Hetal Gor assumed charge as the Chair, BOT. Dr. Gautam Kamthan will serve as the President, YPS, and Dr. Priyanka Kolli is the President, MSRF, both, representing the Medical Students and Fellows at the national AAPI.
system serving Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. Starting as a nurse’s aide, she advanced through multiple leadership roles, overseeing nearly 7,800 employees and 1,200 providers. Under her leadership, the network earned numerous national recognitions. Hayes also serves on several boards and is dedicated to mentoring future healthcare leaders. A Cincinnati native, she enjoys the arts, sports, and travel, and is a devoted mother and aunt.
Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the outgoing President of AAPI lauded the support and guidance he received from Dr. Kaza and other members of the BOT, including the incoming BOT Chair, Dr. Gor. Expressing his gratitude to AAPI’s executive committee members, including AAPI’s Convention committee chairs and members, volunteers and sponsors for their continued dedication and visionary leadership in their efforts to make this convention truly a historic one for all, Dr. Kathula, said. “The organizing committees have been working hard to make the AAPI Convention of 2025 rewarding and memorable for all.”
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty: A Visionary Leader with Over Two Decades of Dedicated Service to AAPI, Poised to Propel the Organization to New Heights
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty envisions a future where AAPI stands as a globally respected, politically empowered, and socially impactful force in healthcare. His international vision includes:
Her work ethic carried into her college years at Northwestern University, where she juggled studies with a daily paper route. As an adult, she balanced the demands of single motherhood, running a small business, and caring for her ailing parents. These life experiences have given her firsthand insight into the everyday struggles facing working families. “My life was Made in America. This campaign was Made in America. It could not have happened anywhere else,” she declared. “Now, I’m committed to making sure that the same American Dream is alive and well now, and for generations to come.”
Rotary’s youth members are joining forces with the globally renowned visionary Dr. V.K. Raju, founder of the Eye Foundation of America (EFA), in a profound mission to eradicate childhood blindness. On June 14, 2025, an inspiring gathering took place at the India International Centre in New Delhi, where a dynamic group of Rotaractors and Interactors expressed their unwavering commitment to carrying forward Dr. Raju’s vision of a “world without childhood blindness.” This event marked a significant step in creating intergenerational partnerships for global health equity.
Vallabhaneni, while expressing his appreciation and gratitude to the Sen. Husted, who serves on the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, the Committee on Environment and Public Works, and the Special Committee on Aging, said, “We truly appreciate the time he spent with us and the valuable insights he shared. His perspectives on current affairs and the evolving role of IT and AI in the industry were both timely and thought-provoking.”
Capitol Hill Day is a vital part of ITServe Alliance, which was born out of the necessity to be the voice of IT companies in the United States, advocating for our rights, with the objective of educating lawmakers working toward meaningful changes that will benefit the IT industry and the larger society across the nation.
About ITServe Alliance:
“ITServe and its member community is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and actively contributing to local communities nationwide,” said Anju Vallabhaneni. “We recognize the sacrifices of our veterans and first responders, who selflessly serve our nation. Supporting them and their families is of utmost importance to us, as we express our gratitude for their unwavering dedication and bravery.”
As a Diplomat of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, championing holistic approaches to managing and reducing Chronic Disease, especially in underserved communities, “Dr Kathula’s contributions extend far beyond the walls of his clinic. As a visionary leader in AAPI, he has amplified the voices of Physicians of Indian religion, advocated for meaningful healthcare reforms, and promoted international collaboration in medicine and research under his leadership,” Rep. Jackson added.
His facility, the David S. Zocchi Brain Tumor Center, is renowned for its innovative approaches in treating brain tumors and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Raval’s dedication to providing compassionate care has earned him accolades, including the GBM Heroes Award presented at the 21st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Neuro-Oncology organized by CURE® magazine.
A key objective of ITServe has been to raise awareness among lawmakers and the broader community about the positive impact of high-skilled legal immigration programs on businesses. Through constructive engagement and collaboration with Members of Congress and Senators, ITServe aims to address misconceptions and advocate for thoughtful legislation that supports economic growth and serves the best interests of the nation.
Dr. Satheesh Kathula is a renowned hematologist and oncologist based in Dayton, Ohio, currently serving as the President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). Dr. Kathula, in his response after receiving the award, said, “I am truly humbled to receive this Lifetime Achievement in Global Healthcare Leadership alongside several other remarkable individuals. This inspires not only me, but the people who are serving the community and society at large.”
Under his leadership, AAPI has launched a program called “Million Miles of Gratitude” to honor veterans by promoting physical activity. Participants can log their walking or running miles, with each mile serving as a tribute to the veterans. The goal is to collectively reach a million miles in the coming year. In May this year, he led a highly successful AAPI Legislative Day on Capitol Hill, where AAPI sought to collectively shape the best health care for the people of US, with the physician at the helm, caring for the medically underserved.
Dr Kathula’s love for his motherland has manifested in him setting up humanitarian and medical projects in India. The most important of them is establishing a state-of-the-art pharmacy college in Warangal in Telangana, where he grew up. Named the Pathfinder Institute of Pharmacy and Educational Research (PIPER), the non-profit with Dr Kathula as the Chairman provides quality education and has already graduated over 1,000 students who are now working in different parts of India and abroad. He conducted several medical camps close to his native place and donated a defibrillator, water purification plant, and library to his native place.
Participants at the Conference were part of insightful panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions led by media experts, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving world of journalism. With digital transformation and press freedom remaining critical global issues, the conference facilitated discussions on key challenges and potential solutions shaping the future of journalism.
Dr. Vemuri S. Murthy is the co-investigator of a ground-breaking Cardiac Arrest Registry in India, “Warangal Area Cardiac Arrest Registry”. Dr. Murthy, a past President of the Chicago Medical Society and Indian American Medical Association (Illinois), has received several prestigious national and international awards and a Medal of US Congress as “Global Champion of Resuscitation” for his professional and community service contributions in the USA and India.
The IAPC Souvenir Video edition was released after a video introduction by Dr. Mathew Joys, Chair of the Souvenir Committee and a short visual highlight of the souvenir on the screen, giving a glimpse of the beautifully curated content and memories it holds. In addition, the book “The Citizen Journalist,” written by Dr. Matthew Joys and providing guidelines for new media workers, was released by former Chairman Dr. Babu Stephen in the presence of eminent journalist Romi Mathew. The book is a compelling exploration of truth-telling in the modern world, blending insights from his rich experience in media, ethics, and civic engagement. Dr. Joys was then honored in absentia as one of the most prolific voices in the Indian American media community.
Inspired by the AAPI New Jersey Chapter, the AAPI “Share a Blanket” Project was launched in 2019 with the objective of sharing warmth during the winter months with those in need. Since its inception, this initiative has become a cherished tradition, and we are proud to see that other local chapters have embraced similar efforts in their communities,” added Dr. Kathula.
year,” said Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Chair, Share-The-Warmth program. “The winter season is a time for us to care and share again! Over the last few years, AAPI, along with several local chapters and some of our members, made tremendous efforts and helped numerous needy people by donating blankets, and we are proud to say that this was very well received by the targeted communities.”
Dr. Raj Bhayani, Secretary of AAPI, urged “all AAPI members to carry on this program in the coming years as well and make AAPI and our local organizations proud. We request that every one of you make a generous donation for this fund, and your contribution would surely give a great comfort to a needy person.”
The contestants will be judged in four categories, based on one’s Poise, Personality, Presentation, Performance, Style, Appearance, Intelligence and Confidence.
In the past five years, since he launched the movement to save the Earth from the effects of Batteries, Sri Nihal Tammana has been instrumental in recycling as many as 625,000+ batteries, preventing hazardous waste from polluting landfills. He has helped educate 40 million people through school programs, corporate workshops, and media outreach.
Nihal’s mission has come to be recognized, winning him and his non-profit organization, Recycle My Battery, dozens of accolades and awards. Sri Nihal has been featured on CNN, BBC, TEDx, and several other major media platforms, helping to spread awareness globally.
Nihal plans to major in environmental science in college and eventually invent his own eco-friendly battery. “I want to study Physics and Chemistry and learn about the environmental impacts on the Earth like climate change and everything. So I can use all this to make my own eco-friendly battery, which will use 0% of harmful chemicals and it will be able to be thrown away into the trash. So, it will be good for performance and for all of us to enjoy all the environment and the Earth will also enjoy it as well as it will be very sustainable. I will learn more engineering and environmental science so I can use all the things which I’ve learned to benefit all.”
His story is one of purpose. impact, and a relentless commitment to building a brighter future for all. He was born in a rural Indian village with severe visual impairment. Today, Sam Maddula is on a mission to create a transformative impact on healthcare and society
A passionate advocate for giving back, Sam has made significant contributions to organizations like the Eye Foundation of America and he continues to mentor aspiring pharmacists, fostering the next generation of leaders. He serves on the boards of numerous non-profits and civic organizations, leveraging his resources to advocate for a more equitable world
Sam believes that “It is our duty to do more as we give as we get more. I am a living example of what we can be, of what can be achieved when we collectively decide to make a difference in the world. I am not a statistic. I am a human being that is here because people like you 40 years ago decided to make a difference. The next person we say from blindness might be an astronomer, a farmer, a doctor, or just an ordinary person telling you his life story, because someone decided to make a difference. You do not need to move mountains to do good. You just need to care a little bit. You don’t need to do a lot, do a little and maybe a little bit more. And before you know it, you saved a child from blindness.”
Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) is a fast-growing syndicate of print, visual, online, and electronic media journalists and other media-related professionals of Indian origin working in the United States, Canada, and Europe. IAPC is committed to enhancing the working conditions of our journalists, exchanging ideas, and offering educational and training opportunities to our members, aspiring young journalists, and media professionals around the globe; and also by honoring media people for their excellence, and for bringing positive changes through their dedicated service among the community. Today IAPC envisages its vision through collective efforts and advocacy activities through its 15 Chapters across the US and Canada, in the larger public sphere. Visit 
Sam shared his life story with the audience during a Fund Raiser organized by 
training 500 healthcare professionals in 
Lord Rami Ranger, a well-known philanthropist, and successful businessman from the United Kingdom, while echoing the mission of EFA said, “Childhood blindness is a solvable problem, but it requires our collective action.” According to 
Deliver life-saving Retinopathy of Prematurity screenings and treatments to premature infants.
Organized by a team of young Medical Students and Residents of Indian origin, the Medical Scholars Summit was planned and organized by an MSRF Executive Board, led by Priya Uppal, President of MSRF; Priyanka Kolli, President-Elect; Sohi Mistry, Vice President; Priyal Shah, Treasurer; and Drishti Patel, Secretary of MSRF.
event, with highlights that included our residency and fellowship panel – where attendees had the opportunity to ask questions directly of these program directors from a variety of surgical and non-surgical specialties, our medical school admissions Q&A from the Dean of Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and an MCAT advice lecture from a 520+ scorer.”
“The 2-day-long Summit was packed with academic sessions that were interactive, with participants having an opportunity to actively engage in discussions and enhance their knowledge on a wide range of topics relevant to Medical Students and Residents, who seek guidance on ways to pursue their careers most effectively,” said Dr. Sunil Kaza, Chair of APPI BOT.
Modi offered insights on Financial Wellness. Samir Pancholy, MD led a session on Service Project Pursuing Graduate Medical Education. Global Medicine and India: Lessons, Opportunities, and Challenges for the Next Generation of Physicians was presented by Dr. Kumar Belani, MD.
Dr. Raj Bhayani, Secretary of AAPI pointed out that, “In addition to several programs in the United States and in India, AAPI has been in the forefront, advocating for the interests of the medical fraternity and organizing regular CME programs, health & wellness events, and financial workshops for its members and outreach, public health education, and advocacy activities for the community both locally and internationally.”
The program was designed and directed by Dr.Vemuri S Murthy, a renowned Indo-US Resuscitation Medicine expert from the Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, and an alumnus of Guntur Medical College.
for international collaborations in the healthcare sector to enhance outcomes of Heart Emergencies and Sudden Cardiac Arrests which are more prevalent among Indians and the Indian Diaspora.
In this context, The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), in collaboration with Heartfulness Meditation and the American Heart Association, embarked on a mission to educate and train its members and provide opportunities to promote self-care, improve physician wellness, and reduce burnout, with focus on lifestyle modifications in the treatment of chronic diseases, including cancer, at Kanha Shanti Vanam in Hyderabad, Telangana, India on 
The MSRF & PreMed Medical Scholars Summit is led by an Executive Board comprising of Manan Pancholy, President; Rohan Chopra, Vice President; Prerak Shah, Secretary; Arjun Gangasani, Treasurer.
Niraj Kothari, MD will present his insightful session on Pioneering Advanced Practices in Medicine, while Deepen Modi will offer insights on Financial Wellness. Samir Pancholy, MD will lead a session on Service Project Pursuing Graduate Medical Education. Global Medicine and India: Lessons, Opportunities, and Challenges for the Next Generation of Physicians will be presented by Dr. Kumar Belani, MD.
Dr. Raj Bhayani, Secretary of AAPI pointed out that, “In addition to several programs in the United States and in India, AAPI has been in the forefront, advocating for the interests of the medical fraternity and organizing regular CME programs, health & wellness events, and financial workshops for its members and outreach, public health education, and advocacy activities for the community both locally and internationally.”
Pointing to studies, Dr. Kathula said that almost one in three in this group may die from heart disease before 65 years of age. In India, heart disease remains the number one cause of death. Common risk factors are smoking and a diet high in sugar, salt, refined grains, and fat. A large number of South Asians appear to have “insulin resistance”, a condition in which the body does not utilize insulin efficiently, resulting in Diabetes, which leads to a significant number of heart-related problems. Lack of adequate exercise, stress, and genetic predisposition are also contributing factors.
The Honorable Consul General of the U.S. in Hyderabad, Jennifer Larson, was the chief guest and spoke highly of the contributions of Indian physicians in the U.S. and their vital role in the American healthcare system. Dr. Nageshwar Reddy, chief of AIG, addressed the audience, praising AAPI’s efforts.