Dr. Jagdish Prasad is a renowned Indian cardiologist and cardiac surgeon, former Director General of Health Services (DGHS) of the Government of India, and a Padma Shri awardee (1991). He is widely known for his clinical work in heart disease and for providing free treatment to many patients over a long career.

Hailing from Nalanda district in Bihar, Dr. Prasad trained in surgery, obtaining a Master of Surgery from AIIMS, New Delhi (1981) and further specialised qualifications including M.Ch. from KEM Hospital, Mumbai. He built a distinguished career as a heart specialist, performing thousands of cardiac procedures and earning a reputation for skill and dedication.

For nearly four decades he combined clinical practice with senior administrative roles in the health services. As Director General of Health Services he contributed to national-level health policy and hospital development. Colleagues and patients often recall his willingness to treat economically weaker patients free of cost, a practice that earned him widespread respect.

“A doctor’s true success,” he has said in interviews, “is not measured only by the number of operations, but by how many lives are given a second chance without the burden of cost.”

In recognition of his contributions to medicine and public health, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 1991. After retirement he remained active in public life, later entering politics in Bihar, founding a party and contesting elections while continuing to speak on issues of healthcare and social justice.

Dr. Jagdish Prasad is remembered as a skilled cardiac surgeon and administrator who combined technical excellence with a strong commitment to accessible care, particularly for the underprivileged.