Bhubaneswar, January 10 (Indian Abroad Newsdesk)
Professor Ajay Rane, an esteemed urogynaecologist from Australia, was presented with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA), the highest honor for overseas Indians, by India’s President Droupadi Murmu on January 10, 2025, during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The award recognized his exceptional contributions to women’s health and social equity in Australia.
Currently, Professor Rane serves as the Professor and Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at James Cook University School of Medicine in Townsville, Australia. He also holds significant positions as a Visiting Medical Officer at Mater Hospital Townsville and as the Director of Urogynaecology at Townsville Hospital. Throughout his career, he has become renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive surgeries that treat conditions such as urinary incontinence, genital prolapse, and fistulas. A pioneering figure in his field, Professor Rane developed the Perigee procedure, a highly innovative surgical technique designed for bladder prolapse repair.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Professor Rane is deeply involved in research, focusing on the development of slings for incontinence, advanced meshes for prolapse repair, and studying human posture during micturition and bowel movements. His research team includes a diverse range of professionals, including nurses, physiotherapists, dieticians, and physiologists, ensuring a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to improving women’s health.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is bestowed by the President of India during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations to recognize the outstanding achievements of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) across the globe. This year’s selection process was led by a distinguished Jury-cum-Awards Committee, chaired by the Vice-President of India and supported by India’s External Affairs Minister. The committee’s decision to honor Professor Rane reflects his significant impact on both healthcare and society, especially in supporting marginalized communities in Australia.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a celebration of the Indian diaspora’s immense contributions in various fields, including medicine, business, education, and public affairs. The 2025 PBD Convention attracted global participation, and Professor Rane’s recognition highlighted the significant role of the Indian diaspora in fostering international connections and excellence.
In his acceptance, Professor Rane expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reiterated his commitment to furthering his research and contributions to women’s health. His groundbreaking work continues to inspire and positively impact communities both in Australia and abroad, making him a key figure in advancing healthcare and promoting inclusivity worldwide.
