Outstanding Indian citizen Prof. K. Srinath Reddy, founding President of the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), was awarded an Honorary P.H.D in Science (Medicine) from the University of London at Buckingham Palace. The eminent cardiologist and former head of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), was handed the degree by Chancellor HRH Princess Anne on the 26th October 2014: “I am grateful for this recognition of my lifelong commitment to improving the health of the people of India and my contributions to global health” Reddy told Asian Voice. “I believe it is a tribute to India's resolute pursuit of good health and wellbeing for all of its people and its steadfast solidarity with other nations who seek the same for their people”.
Reddy is no stranger to international recognition; he already possesses an Honorary Professorship at the University of Sydney and was the First Bernard Lown Visiting Professor of Cardiovascular Health at the Harvard School of Public Health in 2009. He has also been trusted to serve on WHO (World Health Organisation) expert panels and is currently the President of the World Heart Federation for 2014.
The Professor has cultivated much from his background in cardiology and epidemiology. His resume is as eclectic as it can get without straying into another field. He is acknowledged world-wide in research, teaching, advocacy, advising and activism where the projects include cardiovascular health, tobacco control and chronic disease prevention. That he has edited the National Medical Journal of India for ten years running and has more than 400 scientific publications globally, should then be no surprise.
The Public Health Foundation of India, the establishment during which time the Professor was conferred the British P.H.D, also demonstrates a multifaceted dedication to the promotion of healthcare. The organisation, established by former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, is a revered public Think Tank that helps in the building of public health through various related institutions using interdisciplinary and health system connected education and training, policy and programmes & advocacy for prioritized health causes.
Dr. Virander Paul, Dy. High Commissioner, one of Reddy's former students from many years ago, was also offered an Honorary merit.
