Three Indian-Americans Among Recipients of 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards

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The Government of India has officially announced the list of recipients for the prestigious 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA), the highest honor conferred upon overseas Indians. This year, three distinguished Indian-Americans—Sharad Lakhanpal, Sharmila Ford, and Ravi Kumar S.—have earned this coveted recognition, alongside 24 other global leaders.

The awards will be presented at the 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, scheduled for January 8-10, 2025. Themed “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), the event will culminate in a ceremony where President of India will honor the awardees during the valedictory session.

Sharad Lakhanpal: A Leader in Rheumatology

Dr. Sharad Lakhanpal, a renowned rheumatologist based in Dallas, has been honored for his extensive contributions to medical science. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Lakhanpal has played a pivotal role in numerous clinical trials and is a clinical professor of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. A recognized expert, he has delivered lectures around the world and served as the president of the American College of Rheumatology. His efforts in advancing the field of rheumatology have made a lasting impact, both in the United States and globally.

Sharmila Ford: Preserving Bengali Culture and Spiritual Heritage

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Sharmila Ford, a passionate cultural ambassador and devotee of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), has been acknowledged for her exemplary service to the community. Known for her dedication to preserving Bengali culture in the U.S., she has also been instrumental in supporting ISKCON’s global initiatives. Married to Alfred Ford, the great-grandson of automotive magnate Henry Ford, Sharmila has helped strengthen ties between the U.S. and India through her advocacy for projects like the Chandrodaya Temple in Mayapur, India. Her contributions bridge spiritual and cultural divides, enriching the Indian diaspora’s legacy in the United States.

Ravi Kumar S.: Visionary Leadership in IT and Consulting

Ravi Kumar S., the dynamic CEO of Cognizant Technology Solutions, has been recognized for his transformative leadership in the IT and consulting sectors. With a background in leading major organizations like Infosys, Kumar’s vision has propelled Cognizant to the forefront of global technology and business innovation. He is also actively engaged in various strategic initiatives, including serving on the board of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum. His contributions to the tech industry have significantly advanced the U.S.-India relationship and the global IT landscape.

Honorees from Diverse Backgrounds

The list of PBSA recipients also includes several other distinguished individuals, such as Ajay Rane, Marialena Joan Fernandes, and Philomena Ann Mohini Harris, among others, who have been recognized for their outstanding contributions in fields ranging from education to community service. These honorees embody the diverse talents and impactful work of the Indian diaspora across the globe.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards continue to serve as a testament to the significant role the Indian diaspora plays in shaping not only their host countries but also contributing to the development of India itself. This year’s recipients have demonstrated remarkable achievements in medicine, culture, business, and community service, further solidifying the legacy of Indian excellence worldwide.