Bhubaneswar—Over 600 medical professionals from the United States and India converged in Odisha's capital for the 19th annual Global Health Summit, a landmark three-day conference that underscored the powerful bridge between Indian-American physicians and their homeland's healthcare system.
The summit brought together 100 physician leaders from America and nearly 500 participants from India to advance medical innovation and strengthen bilateral healthcare collaboration.
This was the first time the prestigious AAPI conference was held in Odisha, making it a historic moment for the state's medical community.
Key Facts
• The summit took place January 9-11, 2026, at four major venues including Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) and Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar.
• A Stem Donor Drive registered 238 new donors—a feat that would require 20 separate drives in the United States, demonstrating unprecedented community participation.
• AAPI launched its inaugural HPV Vaccination Drive in India at MKCG Medical College, vaccinating 100 girls with plans to vaccinate 5,000 more over several years.
The summit commenced with AAPI President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty's opening remarks emphasizing the transformative potential of bringing experts from two dynamic healthcare systems together. India's Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda sent a video message commending AAPI as
representing over 100,000 Indian physicians practicing in the United States. His words highlighted how AAPI has significantly strengthened healthcare systems in both nations through academic collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Highlights included groundbreaking live robotic and minimally invasive surgical demonstrations broadcast directly from the United States by internationally renowned experts. The Scientific Forum addressed critical health topics including metabolic syndrome, hemoglobinopathy treatment advances, healthcare gaps in India, and cervical cancer management.
Sessions on artificial intelligence in medicine showcased how technology is transforming physician practice globally, with panelists including prominent AI healthcare leaders sharing insights on responsible innovation.
Young physicians received special attention through multiple engagement opportunities designed to nurture the next generation of medical leaders. Over 150 medical students participated in AAPI's competitive poster contest, presenting research and networking with global experts.
Hands-on skills workshops equipped residents and early-career clinicians with practical knowledge and confidence in emerging treatment modalities.
Community health initiatives extended far beyond conference halls, reflecting AAPI's commitment to lasting impact in underserved populations. The organization launched its Child Welfare Initiative India, adopting four orphanages and schools for the blind in Cuttack, donating essential supplies and equipment.
Additionally, AAPI honored four visually challenged women cricketers from Odisha who were part of India's victorious team at the inaugural Blind Women's T20 World Cup 2025 in Colombo.
The summit underscored the critical role of Indian-American physicians as cultural bridges and healthcare innovators strengthening ties between two major global medical powers. Emergency care workshops covered 2025 American Heart Association Resuscitation Guidelines with hands-on simulations, while specialty-focused forums addressed tuberculosis elimination, diabetes and obesity prevention, and critical care advancement.
This comprehensive approach demonstrates AAPI's holistic vision for evidence-based healthcare solutions.
Dr. Meher Medavaram, AAPI's President-Elect, emphasized the organization's commitment beyond traditional conferences:
As the summit concluded, AAPI leadership reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening India-US medical collaboration and positioning Indian physicians as leaders in global healthcare transformation. The 238 stem cell donors registered during the summit represent tangible commitment to advancing regenerative medicine research.
Medical professionals and students attending left with renewed connections, practical skills, and collaborative partnerships that will shape healthcare delivery across both nations.
Do You Know?
During the Global Health Summit, AAPI received 238 stem cell donor registrations in just three days—a volume that would typically require 20 separate recruitment drives in the United States, showcasing the remarkable health consciousness and community spirit of India's medical ecosystem.
Key Terms
• Stem Cell Therapy: Advanced medical treatment using stem cells to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs, offering hope for previously untreatable conditions.
• HPV Vaccination: A preventive vaccine that protects against human papillomavirus, which causes cervical cancer and other cancers, especially effective when administered in adolescence.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Surgical procedures using small incisions and specialized instruments, reducing patient recovery time and post-operative pain compared to traditional open surgery.
• Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of health conditions including high blood pressure, blood sugar, body weight, and cholesterol levels that increase disease risk.
Image from Wikimedia Commons