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The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, the largest organization representing physicians of Indian heritage in the United States, has launched an “urgent humanitarian appeal” to support victims of the recent disaster in Nepal. The devastation has displaced families and left communities struggling to meet their basic needs.
The disaster has created an immediate need for “medical care, food, shelter, clean water, and essential supplies.” As recovery efforts continue, AAPI is mobilizing its nationwide network of physicians, healthcare professionals and community leaders to support relief and rehabilitation initiatives, according to a statement from the organization.
Dr. Meher Medavaram, president of AAPI, said physicians’ responsibilities extend beyond clinical practice to serving communities during humanitarian crises.
“At times like these, our strength as physicians extends beyond the walls of our clinics and hospitals. It is our compassion and our willingness to stand with those in need that define us,” Medavaram said.
She called on AAPI members and supporters to contribute to the Nepal Disaster Relief Fund, noting that every donation could provide critical assistance to families facing severe hardship. AAPI leaders said immediate support is needed to address urgent humanitarian concerns and help communities begin the long recovery process.
“The appeal for Nepal builds upon AAPI’s longstanding tradition of responding to humanitarian emergencies around the world. Over the years, the organization and its members have mobilized resources, medical expertise, and financial assistance to support communities affected by natural disasters, public health emergencies, and other humanitarian crises,” said Dr. Vijay Maurya, chair of AAPI’s Board of Trustees.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, AAPI coordinated efforts to provide medical supplies, public health education, telehealth support and fundraising assistance to healthcare institutions and vulnerable populations in the United States and India, the statement said. The organization also supported frontline healthcare workers and advocated for access to lifesaving resources.
AAPI has also supported relief efforts following major natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods and hurricanes affecting communities in South Asia and other regions. Through partnerships with local organizations, physician volunteers and charitable foundations, its members have helped provide medical assistance, essential supplies and financial aid to affected populations.
Medavaram said AAPI’s response to the disaster in Nepal reflects its broader commitment to humanitarian service.
“AAPI has always responded when humanity calls. Today, Nepal needs us,” she said.
Medavaram added that the relief effort is intended not only to provide immediate assistance but also to reaffirm the values that have guided AAPI since its founding: compassion, service and community leadership.
“Through collective generosity and action, AAPI hopes to bring relief to affected families, support rebuilding efforts, and restore hope to communities facing immense challenges,” said Dr. Krishan Kumar, president-elect of AAPI.
“AAPI is encouraging its members, families, friends, and colleagues to participate in the relief campaign and contribute toward restoring hope, healing communities, and helping Nepal recover from this devastating tragedy,” said Dr. Srini Gangasani, vice president of AAPI.
“The Nepal Disaster Relief Appeal serves as a reminder that medicine is not only a profession but also a commitment to humanity as affected communities struggle to rebuild their lives,” said Dr. Soumya Neravetla, secretary of AAPI.
“AAPI’s leadership is urging physicians and supporters across the globe to stand together in compassion and service, embodying the organization’s enduring values of healing, generosity, and global responsibility,” said Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, treasurer of AAPI.
Medavaram urged the AAPI community to unite in support of the relief campaign.
“Let us come together as one AAPI family and demonstrate the power of compassion, service, and collective action,” she said.
