In a historic and emotionally charged ceremony, Dr. Amit Chakrabarty officially assumed the presidency of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) during the closing gala of its 43rd annual convention held at the Cincinnati Marriott and the Northern Kentucky Convention Center.
Over 1,000 delegates from across the United States attended the four-day gathering, making it one of the most vibrant conventions in AAPI’s recent history.
As a veteran urologist, long-time AAPI member, and community advocate, Dr. Chakrabarty outlined a bold, forward-looking vision emphasizing youth empowerment, political advocacy, transparency, and international healthcare collaboration.
The Alabama-based physician now leads an organization that represents the interests of over 120,000 Indian-American physicians, residents, and medical students across the U.S.
A Vision for the Future: Political Strength and Youth Inclusion
In his stirring inaugural address, Dr. Chakrabarty declared AAPI not just an association, but a “movement” that must extend beyond physician advocacy to influence national healthcare policy and global medical initiatives.
“Let this not be the end of a ceremony—let it be the ignition of a purpose,” said Dr. Chakrabarty. “Our voice must be stronger, our advocacy bolder, and our unity deeper than ever before.”
Among his top priorities are:
- Creating a well-funded AAPI Political Action Committee (PAC) for stronger lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C.
- Addressing the green card backlog and physician burnout
- Providing leadership roles to young physicians and medical students
- Enhancing AAPI’s role in shaping global healthcare policies, particularly in South and Southeast Asia
AAPI’s New Executive Team: United for Reform
Joining Dr. Chakrabarty in leading AAPI into this new chapter are:
- Dr. Meher Medavaram, President-Elect
- Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President
- Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary
- Dr. Soumya Neravetla, Treasurer
Also taking office was Dr. Hetal Gor as Chair of the Board of Trustees (BOT), who shared her inspirational journey from grassroots volunteer to national leader.
Youth sections were represented by Dr. Gautam Kamthan (YPS President) and Dr. Priyanka Kolli (MSRF President).
“We must invest heavily in our young members. Without them, there will be no AAPI in 20 years,” Dr. Chakrabarty stated.
Convention Highlights: Bridging Medical Excellence with Cultural Celebration
The 43rd AAPI Convention offered a compelling mix of academic excellence, policy discussions, cultural events, and networking. Key highlights included:
1. World-Class Speakers
- Dr. Mario Capecchi, Nobel Laureate in Medicine
- Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, President, American Medical Association (AMA)
- Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Padma Vibhushan awardee
- Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and Rep. Jonathan Jackson also addressed the convention
2. Academic and CME Sessions
- 10+ hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME)
- Specialized tracks on Medical Licensing, AI in Healthcare, and Ethics
- Poster Presentations and Research Awards for medical students and residents
3. Wellness and Innovation
- Morning sessions on sleep hygiene and anxiety management
- Explorations into AI’s impact on patient care, led by experts like Dr. Suresh Reddy
4. Cultural Events and Networking
- Cruise on the Ohio River aboard the River Queen
- Biryani Nite, music, dance, and community bonding
- Women’s Forum, AAPI’s Got Talent, and more
“The convention bridged innovation, tradition, and collaboration—truly a milestone in AAPI’s journey,” said Dr. Soumya Neravetla, AAPI Treasurer.
Leadership Transition: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the outgoing president, handed over the gavel to Dr. Chakrabarty in a symbolic moment of unity and continuity. Dr. Kathula was recognized for achievements including the Global Health Summit in India, multiple charitable initiatives, and community service programs like the Bone Marrow and Share a Blanket drives.
AAPI BOT also presented Service Awards to notable physicians, including:
- Dr. Navin Nanda
- Dr. Krishan Kumar
- Dr. Ravi Parikh
- Dr. Avi Singh Gandhi, among others
“Despite multiple challenges, we fulfilled our promises and kept AAPI on its mission-driven path,” noted Dr. Sunil Kaza, outgoing BOT Chair.
AAPI’s Growing National and Global Influence
In his speech, AMA President Dr. Mukkamala emphasized the need for closer integration between AAPI and AMA.
“It’s time for the left hand and the right hand to work together,” he said. “That’s when exponential growth happens—for both organizations and for healthcare in this country.”
Lt. Gov. Coleman echoed appreciation:
“You truly are healthcare heroes. The state of Kentucky thanks you for your service and sacrifice.”
Looking Ahead: Tampa 2026 and Beyond
Dr. Chakrabarty extended a warm invitation to all AAPI members to attend the 44th Annual Convention in Tampa, FL, from July 2 to 5, 2026.
“AAPI will continue to evolve, challenge the status quo, and shape national healthcare with an emphasis on health maintenance rather than disease intervention,” he said. “Join me in this noble journey. Let’s rise together.”
About AAPI:
Founded in 1982, the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin is the largest ethnic medical organization in the United States, serving over 120,000 physicians, residents, and medical students of Indian heritage.
AAPI focuses on professional development, medical education, health policy advocacy, and charitable outreach globally.
