A Tribute to Dr. A.V. Srinivasan: A Lifetime of Dedication to Neurology
Dr. A.V. Srinivasan, a distinguished neurologist from Chennai, stands as one of the most respected and influential figures in Indian neurology. With a career spanning more than five decades, his contributions to patient care, academic research, medical education, and humanitarian service have set benchmarks of excellence in the field. His life’s work reflects an extraordinary blend of clinical expertise, intellectual rigor, and deep compassion for society.
In April 2024, Dr. Srinivasan achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian to receive the prestigious General Neurology Award from the American Academy of Neurology. This global recognition highlighted his sustained and impactful contributions to neurological science and clinical practice. In the same year, he was also conferred with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Scientific Laurel, further acknowledging his exceptional service and leadership in medicine. These honors marked not just personal achievement but a proud moment for Indian neurology on the world stage.
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to patient welfare. For over 625 consecutive weeks, he has selflessly provided free medical consultations, medicines, and meals to underserved communities. Through this remarkable initiative, more than 90,500 patients have received care, making his service one of the longest-running and most impactful charitable medical efforts in the country. His compassionate approach has consistently placed patient dignity and accessibility at the center of healthcare delivery.
Alongside clinical service, he has made enduring contributions to medical literature and research. He has authored and presented more than 125 scientific papers at national and international forums, contributing significantly to the global understanding of neurological disorders. His authorship of 40 books—28 in English and 12 in Tamil—has played a vital role in simplifying complex neurological concepts for students, practitioners, and the wider public. By publishing in both languages, he has ensured that advanced medical knowledge reaches diverse audiences across India.
As an academician, he has been a transformative mentor and educator. He holds the distinction of being the first neurologist to be awarded a Ph.D. in Neurology by the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University. Under his guidance, five neurologists have successfully earned their Ph.D. degrees, reflecting his dedication to nurturing research-oriented clinicians and strengthening India’s academic foundation in neurology. His mentorship has shaped generations of neurologists who continue to serve across India and abroad.
His association with Madras Medical College spans over 50 years, during which he has served in multiple roles—as a student, faculty member, professor, and later as Emeritus Professor. This lifelong relationship with one of India’s premier medical institutions underscores his commitment to teaching and institutional development. He has also served for 12 consecutive years as a jury member for the TYSA Award, helping identify and encourage the best neurology postgraduates in the country.
In 2017, during the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Indian Academy of Neurology (IAN), he played a pivotal leadership role as President of IAN by signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Academy of Neurology and the Association of Indian Neurologists in America (AINA), USA. This collaboration strengthened academic exchange, research cooperation, and global integration of Indian neurology.
Dr. A.V. Srinivasan’s legacy is defined by service, scholarship, and mentorship. His lifelong dedication continues to inspire healthcare professionals, educators, and researchers, leaving an enduring imprint on Indian and global neurology.
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