Indian origin doctors and scientists have been rewarded with the nation’s highest civilian honours for their contribution in the fields of physics, engineering and medicine in this year’s Australia Day honours
Chennupati Jagadish, an eminent professor at Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, was conferred with the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for his eminent service to physics and engineering, particularly in the field of nanotechnology and to education as a leading academic.
Jay Chandra, an eye doctor in New South Wales, head of vitreoretinal surgery at Westmead Hospital since the unit opened in 1985, received an Order of Australia (OAM) medal for his significant service to medicine in the field of ophthalmology.
Melbourne’s Dr Sajeev Koshy received the OAM for his outstanding contributions to the field of dentistry and public oral healthcare in regional Victoria
Dr Thakorbhai Babubhai Patel, of Brisbane, was bestowed an OAM, for service to the community for a range of volunteer roles.
Dr Rashmi Sharma of Canberra became the youngest woman of Indian origin to be honoured with the OAM after she was recognised “for service to medicine, and to professional organisations”.
This year’s Australia Day honours list included over 600 people whose remarkable achievements range from high-profile humanitarian missions to work at the grassroots level.
“They are a source of courage, support and inspiration, and we are a stronger, safer and more caring nation because of them,” Governor-General Peter Cosgrove said announcing the awards.