Renowned gynecologic oncologist Dr. Neerja Bhatla, former Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at AIIMS, New Delhi, has been awarded the Padma Shri 2025 in the field of Medicine. This honour recognizes her pathbreaking work in cervical cancer prevention, HPV vaccination, and women’s health, especially in underserved and rural populations.
Dr. Bhatla has played a pivotal role in advancing HPV testing and vaccine implementation in India, helping shape national and international guidelines for cervical cancer screening. She has led significant research on indigenous HPV test kits and low-cost screening methods suitable for resource-constrained settings.
Her work has contributed directly to:
- Improved early detection of cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Indian women.
- Development of affordable and accessible HPV diagnostic kits.
- Promotion of India’s indigenous HPV vaccines, increasing coverage among adolescent girls.
Dr. Bhatla is also a respected global leader in gynecologic oncology. She served as the President of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), becoming the first Indian to hold this prestigious post. Under her leadership, FIGO advanced global cancer care standards and women’s reproductive health policies.
In addition to the Padma Shri, she has received numerous awards, including:
- Dr. S.K. Ghai Bhandari Award
- ISCCP Excellence Award
- Women’s Leadership Conclave Award
Even after her retirement from AIIMS, she continues to mentor young doctors, lead global health collaborations, and champion affordable, preventive healthcare for women.
- Public Health Impact: Her initiatives are instrumental in reducing cervical cancer mortality across India.
- Equity in Care: Focused on reaching the most marginalized communities with effective screening tools.
- Scientific Visionary: Elevated India’s standing in global gynecologic oncology through leadership and innovation.
Dr. Neerja Bhatla’s Padma Shri award shines a spotlight on the critical importance of women’s health and the power of preventive medicine. Her life’s work continues to save lives and uplift the healthcare system for millions of Indian women.
