Dr Banoo Coyaji
Doctor who led KEM Hospital in Pune for decades and started a rural health project at Vadu, winning the Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Quick facts
- Known for:
- KEM Hospital, rural health
- Pune link:
- KEM Hospital, Rasta Peth
Life and work
Dr Banoo Jehangir Coyaji (1917 to 2004) was a doctor who spent her working life at KEM Hospital in Pune, as its chief medical officer and managing director. She built it into one of the leading hospitals of the city.
In 1972 she set up a primary health centre at Vadu in Pune district, which grew into a rural health and research project for mothers, children and family welfare. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1989 and the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1993.
Pune link
KEM Hospital in Rasta Peth and its research centre continue her work.
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Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 29 October 2026.