Kaski, January 5: Senior ophthalmologist Dr. Sanduk Ruit has been awarded this year’s Shripati Samaj Sewa National Award in Pokhara. The award, established by Shreepati Koirala Guthi located in Mahendrapul, Pokhara Metropolitan City-9, was presented to Ruit, who has succeeded in making the country’s name known internationally in the field of health and human services. Dr. Ruit, who is also the Executive Director of Tilganga Eye Institute, was awarded the Shreepati Social Service Medal and a copper plaque along with Rs 222,222 by Pokhara-9 Ward Chairman Dipendra Marsani and others at the Guthi’s 32nd annual general meeting on Saturday. Dr. Ruit said that the award has motivated him to become more responsible and serve the society.
Similarly, senior journalist Narayan Karki has been honored with the Social Journalism Award. He was honored with a cash prize of Rs. 22,222, a citation, and a certificate in recognition of his contribution to social service through journalism.
Secretary of the Shreepati Koirala Guthi, Nawaraj Koirala, said that the Shreepati Social Service National Award has been presented to individuals who have been active in the fields of disaster relief and rescue, education, culture, health services, science and technology, social awareness, humanitarian services and community development for the country and the people. He said, “We have awarded Dr. Ruit in appreciation of his contribution in the field of humanitarian services, especially in eye treatment.”
A six-member committee, including social workers and intellectuals, was formed under the coordination of Guthi Chairman Phanindra Raj Koirala to select the awardees. The Guthi meeting approved the recommendation of the selection committee and made the names of the awardees public on Ashad 10 (24 June). Earlier, Maiti Nepal, National Innovation Center, Padma Bhawani Namuna Vidyashram of Sarlahi, and Bindhyabasini Religious Area Development Committee of Pokhara have been awarded with this award.
Award in 2024
Dr. Sanduk Ruit, a renowned Nepali ophthalmologist, was awarded the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award 2024. This recognition is often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Asia.”
Dr. Ruit received the award for his groundbreaking work in affordable cataract surgery, which has restored sight to millions of people across Asia and Africa. His innovative surgical technique, often called “small incision cataract surgery,” significantly reduces costs while maintaining high standards of care, making it accessible to underserved communities.
This honor highlights his contribution to combating blindness and making eye care accessible worldwide.
