The Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG), one of the world’s leading gastroenterology centres, proudly celebrates the extraordinary achievement of its Chairman, Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, who has joined a rare league of Indian doctors honoured with all three Padma honours—the Padma Shri (2002), Padma Bhushan (2016), and Padma Vibhushan (2025).
Born in Visakhapatnam in 1956, Dr. Reddy rose from humble beginnings to build AIG into a global centre of excellence. Dr. Reddy’s journey is as inspiring as it is unconventional. A mischievous child who once failed third grade and set fire to a garage, he defied every expectation. His turning point came when a teacher dismissed him as a “useless fellow”—a “comment that ignited a lifelong determination to prove otherwise.
After earning his MBBS, MD, and DM in Gastroenterology, Dr. Reddy went on to master complex procedures many feared to touch. In 1994, what began as a speciality clinic in Hyderabad evolved under his leadership into AIG, now a global pioneer in gastroenterology research, innovation, and training.
At AIG, Dr. Reddy introduced cutting-edge endoscopic techniques and created one of the most advanced teaching and research ecosystems in Asia. His relentless dedication to patient care, innovation, and academic excellence has put India at the forefront of global gastroenterology.
Dr. Reddy has published over 1,050 peer-reviewed papers and has delivered lectures at various international medical conferences. He has been involved in training gastroenterologists in multiple countries and contributed to the development of minimally invasive procedures that are in use globally. He has held positions in international gastroenterology organisations and is associated with advancements in therapeutic endoscopy in Asia.
“This is not just Dr. Reddy’s achievement — it is a defining moment for AIG and Indian medicine,” said the hospital’s senior leadership in a statement. “His story embodies our belief that no background is too modest, and no dream too ambitious.”
At 69, Dr. Reddy continues to lead from the front, seen regularly in endoscopy labs, academic lectures, and global conferences. His story reminds us that greatness isn’t always born in brilliance; sometimes, it’s forged in grit, setbacks, and an unshakeable will to rise.
