Three Indian Americans have been included among the 131 recipients of India’s Padma Awards for 2026, as announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs ahead of Republic Day. The awards, approved by President Droupadi Murmu, span a wide range of fields and honor individuals whose work has made a lasting impact in India and abroad. The list includes recipients of the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, with formal award ceremonies scheduled to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.
Tennis icon Vijay Amritraj leads the Indian American honorees, having been awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian distinction. Amritraj is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Indian tennis history. During his professional career, he captured 16 singles titles and played a crucial role in raising India’s profile on the international tennis circuit. Beyond his on-court achievements, he served as India’s Davis Cup captain and later built a successful career as a tennis broadcaster in the United States. Already a Padma Shri recipient, Amritraj’s induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame reflects his enduring legacy in the sport.
The Padma Shri has been conferred on Dr Prateek Sharma in recognition of his contributions to medicine. Dr Sharma is internationally respected for his work in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and cancers. His leadership in advanced imaging techniques and endoscopic procedures has helped improve early cancer detection and patient outcomes. Medical professionals credit his research and clinical innovations with influencing treatment standards and shaping modern gastroenterology practices across the world.
Another Padma Bhushan awardee is Dr Nori Dattatreyudu, a globally acclaimed radiation oncologist known for his groundbreaking work in cancer treatment. Originally from Andhra Pradesh, Dr Nori completed his medical education in India before building an influential career in the United States. Over the years, he has contributed extensively to radiation oncology, served as a consultant to the International Atomic Energy Agency, and led multiple clinical trials supported by the US National Cancer Institute. His work has played a key role in advancing cancer care and research globally.
The Padma Awards are among India’s most prestigious civilian honors and are announced annually to recognize exceptional service in fields such as public affairs, science, medicine, sports, arts, and social service. The inclusion of three Indian Americans in the 2026 list highlights the global impact of the Indian diaspora and its continued contributions to excellence across disciplines.
