Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu, a world-renowned Indian-American radiation oncologist, has been awarded the Padma Bhushan in recognition of his outstanding contributions to cancer treatment. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the 2026 Padma Awards on Sunday, highlighting his decades-long efforts to improve patient outcomes worldwide.

The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honours, are approved by the President of India and conferred annually on Republic Day. For 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 awards, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honours. The awards will be formally presented at Rashtrapati Bhavan in March or April.

Dr. Nori’s pioneering work in high-dose-rate brachytherapy has transformed cancer care, particularly for cervical, urinary, thoracic, head, and neck cancers. His innovations in remote after-loading brachytherapy allow precise delivery of radiation to tumors while sparing healthy tissue, a technique now globally accepted and saving millions of lives.

Also Read: Happy Republic Day 2026: Best Wishes, Messages and Quotes to Share Today

Over his career, Dr. Nori has led numerous clinical trials sponsored by the U.S. National Cancer Institute and earned international acclaim for his contributions to radiation oncology. He has previously been recognised with the Ellis Island Medal of Honour in 2014 and received the Padma Shri in 2015 for his medical services.

Born in Mantada village, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Nori completed his medical education at Kurnool Medical College and postgraduate studies at Osmania Medical College. He has consistently been ranked among America’s top doctors, particularly for his expertise in treating women’s cancers, cementing his legacy as a global leader in oncology.

Also Read: Padma Awards 2026: 45 Unsung Heroes Honoured Before Republic Day