Latest news with #DibrugarhUniversity
News18
5 days ago
- Business
- News18
Who Is Tonmoy Sharma? Indian-Origin Pharma Magnate Held In US For $149 Million Healthcare Fraud
Originally from Guwahati, Assam, Sharma built a high-profile career in psychiatry and mental health research after earning his MBBS from Dibrugarh University in 1987. Indian-origin pharma magnate and internationally recognized psychiatrist, Tonmoy Sharma, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on May 29 for his alleged role in a massive $149 million healthcare fraud. Sharma, 61, is the founder and former CEO of the now-defunct Sovereign Health Group, a California-based addiction treatment network that once operated multiple facilities across the United States. Originally from Guwahati, Assam, Sharma built a high-profile career in psychiatry and mental health research after earning his MBBS from Dibrugarh University in 1987. He later moved to the US to establish his medical and entrepreneurial career, gaining recognition for his groundbreaking work in schizophrenia and mental illnesses. He also held medical licenses in both India and the United Kingdom, and contributed to over 200 peer-reviewed journal articles and five books. Sharma was indicted by a federal grand jury on eight criminal counts: four counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy, and three counts of illegal remunerations for patient referrals. According to the US Attorney's Office for the Central District of California, his company, Sovereign Health, fraudulently billed more than $149 million to private health insurance companies between 2014 and 2020. The indictment alleges that Sovereign employees, acting under Sharma's direction, used deceptive marketing to lure patients into their facilities. They falsely claimed treatment costs would be covered by a charitable foundation and enrolled patients into insurance plans without their knowledge. The group also billed insurers for unauthorized urinalysis tests, racking up over $29 million in fraudulent claims, and paid over $21 million in illegal kickbacks to secure patient referrals. The investigation into Sovereign Health began in June 2017, leading to FBI raids on the company's treatment centres, its San Clemente headquarters, and Sharma's residence in San Juan Capistrano. The company ultimately shut down operations in 2018. Also arrested was Paul Jin Sen Khor, 45, Sovereign's former cash management and accounts payable supervisor. He has pleaded not guilty, and his trial is scheduled for July 29. Not Just Known For Healthcare Sector Sharma was not only known for his role in the healthcare sector but also for his deep roots in Assam's cultural and intellectual heritage. He is the son of the late Phani Sharma, a prominent theatre personality, filmmaker, and owner of Guwahati's Anuradha Cinema. An expert in brain function, cognition, and behavioral science, Sharma served on multiple editorial boards, peer-reviewed for 15 medical journals, and advised on antipsychotic medications. Despite his respected credentials, his alleged involvement in one of the largest healthcare frauds in US addiction treatment history has sent shockwaves through both the medical and South Asian diaspora communities.
Time of India
24-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Unconventional ‘Vidya' transforms lives in Dhemaji
Guwahati: Pranjal Buragohain's transformative journey, shaped by personal challenges, led him to establish a school that revolutionises education in Assam's Dhemaji district. As an assistant professor at Dibrugarh University, Buragohain dedicates his resources and time towards the school's sustainable operations. "There was a need for a school in our area, as most existing schools struggled to function properly due to severe challenges. We needed a space where students could find a sense of purpose and direction in their lives," said Buragohain. He added, "I personally faced many academic failures and obstacles while growing up, experiences that were often isolating and harsh. I would not want any of my students to go through the same. That's why I wanted to create a place where learning is empowering, supportive, and rooted in real life purpose." His innovative educational model, 'Vidya', launched in 2020, diverges from traditional exam-focused learning. The school implements a comprehensive approach, combining science, mathematics and language studies with skill development, emotional intelligence and character building. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Buragohain emphasises that the education prepares students for life beyond examinations. Situated in Subahi village, which extends across Assam's Dhemaji district and Arunachal's Lower Siang district, the institution serves approximately 400 students. The learners come from various Assam districts, including Nagaon, Kamrup, Kamrup (Metropolitan), Tinsukia, with some students arriving from the neighbouring state. "The school follows three core curricula alongside academics — livelihood skills, well being skills and traditional values. Our aim is to make education memorable for the students by incorporating plays and experiential learning methods. Classes are not only held during regular hours but also during early mornings and late at night, allowing students to absorb concepts at their own pace. Right now, we have students from primary standard to high secondary first year," he said. The school promotes self-reliance by teaching students practical skills while ensuring real-world application. The livelihood curriculum includes training in manufacturing soaps, mats and other handcrafted items. Students sell these products locally, generating income during their studies. This practical approach develops financial independence while building their confidence and self-respect.
Time of India
24-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Unconventional ‘Vidya' transforms lives
Guwahati: Pranjal Buragohain's transformative journey, shaped by personal challenges, led him to establish a school that revolutionises education in Assam's Dhemaji district. As an assistant professor at Dibrugarh University, Buragohain dedicates his resources and time towards the school's sustainable operations. "There was a need for a school in our area, as most existing schools struggled to function properly due to severe challenges. We needed a space where students could find a sense of purpose and direction in their lives," said Buragohain. He added, "I personally faced many academic failures and obstacles while growing up, experiences that were often isolating and harsh. I would not want any of my students to go through the same. That's why I wanted to create a place where learning is empowering, supportive, and rooted in real life purpose." His innovative educational model, 'Vidya', launched in 2020, diverges from traditional exam-focused learning. The school implements a comprehensive approach, combining science, mathematics and language studies with skill development, emotional intelligence and character building. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo Buragohain emphasises that the education prepares students for life beyond examinations. Situated in Subahi village, which extends across Assam's Dhemaji district and Arunachal's Lower Siang district, the institution serves approximately 400 students. The learners come from various Assam districts, including Nagaon, Kamrup, Kamrup (Metropolitan), Tinsukia, with some students arriving from the neighbouring state. "The school follows three core curricula alongside academics — livelihood skills, well being skills and traditional values. Our aim is to make education memorable for the students by incorporating plays and experiential learning methods. Classes are not only held during regular hours but also during early mornings and late at night, allowing students to absorb concepts at their own pace. Right now, we have students from primary standard to high secondary first year," he said. The school promotes self-reliance by teaching students practical skills while ensuring real-world application. The livelihood curriculum includes training in manufacturing soaps, mats and other handcrafted items. Students sell these products locally, generating income during their studies. This practical approach develops financial independence while building their confidence and self-respect.
