Padma Bhushan Honours Dr Nori Dattatreyudu’s Cancer Care Legacy

Renowned radiation oncologist Dr Nori Dattatreyudu has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contribution to the field of medicine. The honour was announced as part of the Padma Awards 2026 list released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, recognising decades of pioneering work that transformed cancer treatment and improved patient outcomes globally.

National honour and Padma Awards 2026

The Padma Bhushan is India’s third-highest civilian award and is conferred for distinguished service of a high order. For 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 Padma Awards, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri honours. The awards will be presented at ceremonial functions at Rashtrapati Bhavan, typically held in March or April each year.

Pioneering advances in radiation oncology

Dr Nori is internationally recognised for his pioneering work in high-dose-rate brachytherapy. His innovations in remote after-loading brachytherapy enabled precise delivery of radiation to cancerous tissues while minimising damage to healthy cells. Introduced in the 1970s, the technique revolutionised treatment for cancers of the cervix, urinary system, chest, and head and neck. It has since become a globally accepted standard, benefiting millions of patients worldwide.

He also served as principal investigator for multiple clinical trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, contributing significantly to evidence-based cancer care and clinical protocols.

Global recognition and earlier honours

Dr Nori’s contributions have earned wide international acclaim. In 2014, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honour in the United States, recognising individuals who have made lasting contributions to society. Earlier, India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2015 for his services to medicine. He has also been repeatedly named among the top doctors in America by peer evaluations, particularly for his work in treating cancers affecting women.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Padma Bhushan is India’s third-highest civilian award.
• Padma Awards are announced annually on Republic Day.
• High-dose-rate brachytherapy is a key advancement in radiation oncology.
• The National Cancer Institute is a major US body funding cancer research.

Early life and medical education

Born into a Telugu family in Mantada village of Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district, Dr Nori completed his medical education at Kurnool Medical College and pursued postgraduate studies at Osmania Medical College. His journey from a rural background to global leadership in oncology underscores the enduring impact of medical innovation rooted in strong academic foundations.