Srinagar, June 15: A young paediatric neurosurgeon from Kashmir, Dr Noor Ul Owase Jeelani, has made Jammu and Kashmir proud after being honoured with the prestigious MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday Honours List in the United Kingdom.
Dr Jeelani, who is a Professor of Paediatric Neurosurgery, is one of two individuals selected for this honour. The other recipient is James Hatchley, a former Non-Executive Director at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).
Dr Jeelani is globally known for his expertise in paediatric neurosurgery, craniofacial reconstructive surgery, and craniopagus separation surgery—a rare and complex operation to separate twins joined at the head.
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He joined GOSH in 2000 and led its neurosurgery department from 2012 to 2018. Under his leadership, the department became one of the biggest paediatric neurosurgery centres in the world.
In addition to his work in the UK’s NHS, Dr Jeelani has also performed surgeries across the globe through his charity Gemini Untwined, which focuses on helping children with complex neurosurgical conditions. He was awarded the MBE for his services to neurosurgery and global child health.
Reacting to the honour, Dr Jeelani said, “It is an honour to receive this MBE. I am truly grateful to the teams at Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College London, and Gemini Untwined. This award reflects not just my work, but also the dedication of all my colleagues. We are committed to creating a better future for children around the world. All children are equally precious and deserve our care.”
Meanwhile, James Hatchley, who served as Deputy Chair and Senior Independent Director at GOSH between 2016 and 2022, was also awarded an MBE. He has raised over £1.2 million for GOSH Charity in memory of his daughter Emma.
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James, along with his family and friends, created “Team Hatch”, a group that participates in marathons, triathlons, and other endurance sports to raise money for children undergoing treatment at GOSH.
“This recognition reminds me of the amazing professionals who helped our daughter at GOSH. It motivates me and my teammates to continue fundraising for the children and families who depend on this incredible hospital,” he said.
Both Dr Jeelani and James Hatchley have been recognised for their extraordinary contributions to improving children’s lives, both in the UK and around the world.
