At the 44th Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), held July 2 to 5, 2026, in Tampa, Florida, three physicians received the organization’s Most Distinguished Physicians Award.
According to AAPI, the recognition is reserved for leaders whose contributions have significantly advanced medical practice, education, and community service across continents.
Dr. Navin C. Shah received the Architect of AAPI and Champion of Foreign Medical Graduates Equality Award.
Dr. Ashok Fulambarker was recognized with the Lifetime of Service to Veterans and Pulmonary Medicine Award.
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Dr. Ishita Gupta received the MSRF Award in recognition of her emergence as a global voice in internal medicine and medical research.
The award recipients were selected by the AAPI Awards Committee 2026, chaired by Dr. Vandana Agarwal, following a comprehensive review of a highly accomplished pool of nominees. AAPI said the committee conducted a rigorous and thoughtful selection process to identify this year’s honorees.
The convention, described by AAPI leadership as the organization’s “real stage” for excellence and unity, brought together more than 1,000 physicians, researchers, and healthcare innovators for four days of scientific sessions, professional collaboration, and celebration.
