Dr Nori Dattatreyudu Awarded Padma Bhushan for Pioneering Cancer Treatment
Renowned radiation oncologist Dr Nori Dattatreyudu has been conferred the Padma Bhushan , India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his exceptional and lifelong contribution to the field of medicine. The honour, announced as part of the Padma Awards 2026 by the Ministry of Home Affairs, acknowledges his pioneering innovations that have transformed radiation oncology and improved cancer treatment outcomes worldwide.
Padma Awards 2026: National Recognition of Excellence
The Padma Bhushan is awarded for distinguished service of a high order across various fields. For 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved a total of 131 Padma Awards , comprising five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honours. As per tradition, the awards will be formally presented at Rashtrapati Bhavan during ceremonial functions held later in the year.
Breakthrough Contributions in Radiation Oncology
Dr Nori is internationally celebrated for his groundbreaking work in high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy , a technique that allows highly precise radiation delivery directly to tumours while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Developed and refined by him in the 1970s, remote after-loading brachytherapy represented a major leap forward in cancer care.
This innovation significantly improved treatment for cancers of the cervix, urinary tract, chest, and head and neck , and is now a globally accepted standard of care. His work helped make cancer treatment safer, more effective, and accessible to patients across continents.
In addition, Dr Nori served as a principal investigator for several National Cancer Institute–sponsored clinical trials , strengthening the evidence base for modern radiation oncology practices and contributing to international treatment protocols.
Global Honours and Earlier Recognition
Dr Nori’s achievements have earned him widespread international recognition. In 2014 , he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honour in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made enduring contributions to society. India had earlier honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2015 , marking his continued impact on medical science.
He has also been repeatedly ranked among the top doctors in the United States , particularly for his work in cancers affecting women, based on peer evaluations and clinical excellence.
Imporatnt Facts for Exams
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Padma Bhushan is India’s third-highest civilian award
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Padma Awards are announced annually on Republic Day
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High-dose-rate brachytherapy is a major advancement in radiation oncology
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National Cancer Institute (USA) is a leading body supporting cancer research
Roots, Education, and Inspiration
Born in Mantada village in Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district , Dr Nori belongs to a Telugu family and began his journey from a modest rural background. He completed his MBBS at Kurnool Medical College and pursued postgraduate studies at Osmania Medical College . His rise from rural India to global leadership in oncology highlights the transformative power of
Month: Current Affairs - January 27, 2026
Category: Padma Awards 2026 | Medicine & Health