London: Dr Amritpal Singh Hangin, a professor of general practice at Newcastle University and a former president of the British Medical Association (BMA), has been awarded the title of ‘Knighthood’ by King Charles III. He is among the 30 healthcare professionals, philanthropists, and community workers of Indian origin who have been included in the 2024 New Year Honors List for their selfless service to society.
The list, which was released on Friday night, recognizes the extraordinary achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, “You are the pride of this country and an inspiration for all of us.”
Dr Hangin, who is also known as Professor Pali Hangin, has been active in the medical field in Britain for more than 30 years. He is the founding dean of Durham University and has played a key role in shaping the policies and standards of the BMA. He has also contributed to the research and education of general practice and primary care.
Other Indian-origin recipients of the New Year Honors List
Among the other Indian-origin recipients of the prestigious awards are:
- Dr Chandra Mohan Kanneganti has been appointed as a ‘Commander of the Order of the British Empire’ (CBE) for his services to general practice and public health in Staffordshire. He is the chair of the North Staffordshire Local Medical Committee and a senior partner at Goldenhill Medical Centre.
- Dr Mala Rao has been appointed as a CBE for her services to the United Nations. She is a senior clinical fellow at Imperial College London and a special adviser to the World Health Organization. She has led several initiatives to improve health systems and health equity in low- and middle-income countries.
- Bidesh Sarkar has been appointed as a CBE for his public service. He is the chief financial officer of the Department of Business and Trade and has been instrumental in delivering the government’s economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Cabinet Office said that this year more than 1,200 people have been honored for their extraordinary achievements. 48 percent of the award recipients are women.
Other notable honorees for 2024
The New Year Honors List also features some of the most prominent figures in the fields of arts, entertainment, sports and science. Some of the high honorees for 2024 are:
- Hollywood filmmaker Ridley Scott, has been awarded the ‘Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire’ for his services to the British film industry. He is one of the most acclaimed and influential directors of all time, with films such as Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator, and The Martian.
- Welsh singer Shirley Bassey has become the 64th living member to receive the ‘Order of the Companion of Honour’ for her contribution to the field of music. She is best known for her powerful voice and her iconic songs for the James Bond franchise, such as Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, and Moonraker.
- Football legend David Beckham, has been awarded the ‘Knight Bachelor’ for his services to sport and charity. He is one of the most successful and popular footballers of his generation, having played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy and England. He is also a global ambassador for UNICEF and a co-owner of Inter Miami CF.
