Naveen Thacker

President-International Pediatric Association

Executive Director of Deep Children Hospital & Research Centre

Gandhidham-Kutch, Gujarat, India

Dr Naveen Thacker is a distinguished pediatrician and a prominent figure in child health. He serves as the Director of Deep Children Hospital & Research Centre in Gandhidham-Kutch, Gujarat. He holds key leadership positions in international health organisations, including serving as the Executive Director of the International Pediatric Association. Previously, Dr Thacker served as President of the International Pediatric Association (2023-2025), President of the Asia Pacific Pediatric Association (2016-18) and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (2007). He is an active member of the Scientific Committee and faculty for ADVAC in France, the Vice-chair of the Steering Committee of the International Collaboration on Advanced Vaccinology Training, and a Member of India's Expert Advisory Group on Measles and Rubella and co-chair of the 30th and 31st India Expert Advisory group on Polio Eradication. He served on the Gavi board and the PMNCH board.

He was recognised as the Goalkeepers Champion for the year 2025 by the Gates Foundation and was identified by UNICEF as one of the top influencers in the fight against polio on World Polio Day 2017.
His honours include the Recipient of Indian Academy of Pediatrics Hon. Surg CMDE Late Shantilal C. Sheth Oration (2025), Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (2025), Recipient of the "Mas Hidayat Award" of the Indonesian Pediatric Society (2024), Torch Bearer of India by Economic Times ET EDGE & Medwiz (2023), the FPHS Foundation Day Award from the Foundation for People-Centric Health System (2023), Outstanding Asian Pediatrician Award (2012), the Rotary International Regional Award for a Polio-Free World (2010).

Dr. Thacker's contributions extend well beyond clinical practice. He has played a pivotal role in national polio eradication efforts, served as an advisor to several health committees, and co-investigated major projects. His dedication has significantly shaped child health policies and practices in India and globally.