Endocrinologist NP Kochupillai Dies At 84 (image: twitter.com/drambrishmithal)

Indian clinical endocrinologist Narayana Panicker Kochupillai, popularly known as NP Kochupillai, died on Monday. He was 84. Considered as one of the founding fathers of Endocrinology in India, NP Kochupillai is known for his contributions to the field of endemically prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorders.

Kochupillai served as the Professor Emeritus of the National Academy of Medical Sciences and was a former head of the department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.

Fondly called as “Kochu” by his friends, NP Kochupillai was born on February 10, 1939, and grew up in Kerala”s Alappuzha district. After finishing graduation in science (BSc) from University of Kerala, he obtained MBBS and MD from AIIMS. Following, he completed advanced residency on Immunoassay technology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York under Nobel Laureate Dr Rosalyn Yalow.

Kochupillai”s academic and research experience spans over 35 years. His contributions include the advancement of radioimmunoassay of hormones, the study of thyroid diseases, and his role in identifying and studying iodine deficiency. Besides, he has published significant research papers in peer-reviewed journals, organised several medical conferences, and delivered many keynote addresses and award lectures.

Kochupillai was a recipient of numerous awards and accolades including Ranbaxy International Award and Dr. B. C. Roy Award. In 2003, he was honoured with Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award. He has also served as the President of the Endocrine Society of India and as the Director of Medical Research at MS Ramaiah Medical College, Bengaluru.