By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : August 04, 2026 4:56 pm
The award, instituted jointly by Noorul Islam University and NIMS Medicity, was presented by the Governor of Kerala, Rajendra Arlekar, at a ceremony held in Thiruvananthapuram
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), has been conferred the 8th A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to public health and medical research.
The award, instituted jointly by Noorul Islam University and NIMS Medicity, was presented by the Governor of Kerala, Rajendra Arlekar, at a ceremony held in Thiruvananthapuram.
Dr. Swaminathan has previously served as Chief Scientist at World Health Organization and Director General, Indian Council for Medical Research. She has been widely recognised for her leadership in advancing public health, strengthening scientific research, and shaping evidence-based health policies at both national and global levels.
The latest honour acknowledges her lifelong commitment to improving healthcare systems and promoting scientific excellence.
The recognition also reflects her continued efforts in mentoring young researchers and fostering innovation at the intersection of science, public health, and sustainable development.
As Chairperson of MSSRF, she has been instrumental in advancing the foundation's mission of applying science and technology to address societal and developmental challenges.