Over 30 individuals of Indian heritage recognized for remarkable contributions across diverse fields
Over 30 professionals of Indian heritage have been honored in the 2025 New Year Honours List, an annual tradition overseen by the UK Cabinet Office and issued in the name of King Charles III. The list highlights individuals who have significantly impacted their fields, from healthcare and education to public service and beyond, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The honours list celebrates outstanding contributions by Indian-origin individuals in the UK
Among the honorees is Ranil Malcolm Jayawardena, a Conservative MP of Sri Lankan and Indian descent, knighted for his political and public service. Former England football manager Gareth Southgate also received a Knighthood for his dedication to the sport. This year’s list, featuring over 1,200 recipients, underscores the diversity and inclusivity of British society, with 12% of recipients hailing from ethnic minority backgrounds.
Indian-origin Honorees Include:
Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBEs):
- Satwant Kaur Deol, for services to further education
- Professor Sneh Khemka, for contributions to healthcare, science, and technology
- Leena Nair, CEO of Chanel, for services to the retail and consumer sector
- Mayank Prakash, President of the British Computing Society, for advancing technology professionals
- Purnima Murthy Tanuku, CEO of the National Day Nurseries Association, for contributions to early years education
Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBEs):
- Professor Sanjay Arya, for services to healthcare and ethnic minority doctors
- Nandini Das, Oxford professor, for interdisciplinary research and public engagement
- Tarsem Singh Dhaliwal, CEO of Iceland Foods, for his impact on the Welsh economy and charity
- Monica Kohli, for promoting diversity in the maritime industry
- Gian Singh Power, a mental health campaigner
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBEs) and British Empire Medallists (BEMs):
- Dalim Kumar Basu, tech expert, and Professor Bhaskar Dasgupta, rheumatologist, for their work in technology and healthcare
- Community leaders like Sanjib Bhattacharjee and musician Balbir Singh Khanpur Bhujhangy for services to Punjabi culture
Broader Celebration of Service
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the honorees, stating, “These individuals embody the core values of service and excellence that define the UK. Their tireless efforts improve our communities and inspire us all.”
This year’s honours list reflects grassroots contributions, showcasing how ordinary individuals achieve extraordinary impacts through dedication and innovation. Nobel Laureate and author Sir Kazuo Ishiguro was named Companion of Honour for literary contributions, while actor Stephen Fry received a Knighthood for his efforts in mental health advocacy.
Nomination for Future Recognition
Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden encouraged citizens to nominate individuals who inspire change in their communities. “This honours list celebrates the quiet heroes who shape our nation in countless meaningful ways,” he noted.
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