41st AAPI Convention: New Leadership And Notable Achievements

Photo : AAPI leadership 2023-2024

India-West Staff Reporter

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The 41st annual American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) Convention and Scientific Sessions concluded at the Marriott Downtown in Philadelphia, PA, with Dr. Anjana Samadder assuming charge as the new President of AAPI. The convention, held under the major theme “True and Total Health is the Wellbeing of Mind, Body, and Spirit,” witnessed the inauguration of the new AAPI leadership team and showcased remarkable achievements.

In her Presidential Inaugural address on July 8th, 2023, Dr. Anjana Samadder expressed her commitment to the well-being of AAPI members and the advancement of the organization’s mission. Alongside Dr. Samadder, Dr. Satheesh Kathula took charge as President-Elect, Dr. Amit Chakrabarthy as Vice President, Dr. Sumul Raval as Secretary, Dr. Sreeni Gangasani as Treasurer, and Dr. Lokesh Edara as Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The convention began with the chanting of Sanskrit Mantras, followed by the ribbon-cutting ceremony and traditional Lamp lighting. Dr. Ravi Kolli, Immediate past President of AAPI, addressed the delegates, highlighting the origins of AAPI 41 years ago and the exceptional contributions of physicians of Indian origin to healthcare in the United States. He expressed gratitude for the support received and welcomed attendees to the historic 41st Annual Convention in Philadelphia.

Venkaiah Naidu, former Vice President of India, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of giving back to one’s motherland and nurturing one’s physical and mental well-being. He praised AAPI’s programs centered around addressing mental health stigmas and promoting practices like meditation and yoga.

The convention provided a platform for AAPI members to learn and practice the significance of meditation in resolving health concerns, as well as the contributions of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditations to global health challenges.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the gathering, sharing insights on stress management through yoga, breathing techniques, and meditation. He acknowledged the demanding nature of physicians’ work and encouraged them to prioritize their own well-being to lead happier and more fulfilling lives.

During the convention, Congressman Shri Thanedar, a member of the Samosa Caucus in the US House, praised the hard work of Indian American physicians, particularly their dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed his commitment to advocating for immigration system reforms in the United States.

The GOP’s Vivek Ramaswamy spoke passionately about his Presidential ambitions and his dedication to combating cultural challenges that hinder the American Dream. He emphasized the importance of hard work, commitment, and character in achieving success.

Several distinguished individuals were honored during the convention. Dr. Prem Reddy received the Special Presidential Appreciation and Achievement Award for his leadership, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Dr. Ranga Reddy, past AAPI President, was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Manmeet Ahluwalia received the AAPI 2023 Most Distinguished Physician Award, while Dr. Udaya Shivangi was recognized with the AAPI 2023 Most Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Soumya Reddy Neravetla received the AAPI’s 2023 Most Distinguished YPS Award, and Mehul Mehra was presented with the AAPI’s 2023 Most Distinguished MSRF Award. Mary Shaya, President of J & B Medical, was honored with the prestigious AAPI Presidential Humanitarian Award 2023, while Stephen Shaya, M.D., Managing Director of Akkad Holdings and Executive Servant Leader at J & B Medical, received the AAPI Presidential Healthcare Leadership Award 2023.

The convention featured accredited CME courses, panel discussions, presentations, and a research and poster competition. It also included forums for AAPI Young Physicians Group and AAPI MSRF for medical students, residents, and fellows. The Exhibitor Hall showcased medical and pharmaceutical products, devices and equipment, insurance and tourism services, art, and medical and dental practice-related services.

The convention’s diverse program offered attendees the opportunity to engage with notable speakers, cutting-edge medical and scientific information, and a rich cultural experience encompassing authentic Indian cuisine, fashion, yoga, and entertainment. AAPI’s Got Talent, organized by AAPI physicians, provided delegates with a platform to showcase their talents and participate in a talent show.

Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Convention Chair, acknowledged the dedicated team that planned and organized the event, making it a truly memorable experience. He expressed gratitude for the hard work that went into creating an attractive program, combining educational activities and family enjoyment.

With one in seven patient encounters in the United States involving a physician of Indian origin, AAPI stands as the largest ethnic medical organization in the country, representing over 100,000 physicians. Dr. Anjana Samadder, the new President of AAPI, invited attendees to the 42nd Annual Mega Convention, set to be the largest in AAPI’s history, to be held in the heart of New York City from July 18-22.