Dr. R. Ravi Kannan, the director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam, was recently honoured with the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for 2023. This accolade is a recognition of his groundbreaking work in transforming cancer treatment in the region through his efforts that focus on patient welfare and pro-poor initiatives. These initiatives include providing free medical care, food, lodging, and job opportunities for those caring for the patients.
About the Ramon Magsaysay Award
The Ramon Magsaysay Award, established in 1957, is heralded as the highest honour and foremost prize in Asia. The award commemorates individuals who have shown remarkable dedication to serving the peoples of Asia, irrespective of their origin or background.
Named after Ramon Magsaysay, the third president of the Republic of the Philippines, the award is given out every year on August 31st, aligning with Magsaysay’s birth anniversary. The origin of this award is inspired by the life and works of Ramon Magsaysay.
The award comes with a certificate of honour, a medallion etched with an image of Ramon Magsaysay, and a cash prize. Its international prestige and gravitas have led many to view the Ramon Magsaysay Award as the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in Asia.
Details on Categories of Recognition
Initially, the Ramon Magsaysay Award celebrated achievements across six different categories. These categories included “Government Service”, “Public Service”, “Community Leadership”, “Journalism, Literature, and Creative Communication Arts”, “Peace and International Understanding”, and “Emergent Leadership”.
However, post-2009, administration decided to stray from this tradition. The award is now granted without assigning any fixed categories, with the only exception being the category of ‘Emergent Leadership’. Today, the Ramon Magsaysay Award qualification is not limited to a predefined set of categories but instead recognises excellent contributions in a wide range of fields dedicated to serving the peoples of Asia.
2023 Winner Dr. R. Ravi Kannan
Dr. R. Ravi Kannan, a renowned surgical oncologist, is the director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam. He was bestowed with the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2023 for his pioneering work in revolutionising cancer treatment. His patient-centred and pro-poor programmes have created significant impacts on the cancer care landscape in Assam. The free treatment, food, lodging, and employment opportunities for caregivers made available under these programmes have been instrumental in relieving the burdens on cancer patients and their families.
In the fight against cancer, Dr. Kannan’s remarkable contribution has not just been confined to improving treatment facilities but it also encompasses empathetic care that eases the emotional and financial stress faced by many affected individuals and families. His award-winning efforts reiterate the power of service-oriented healthcare systems.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award is a recognition of such determination, resilience, and service. It encourages and inspires individuals across Asia to commit themselves to serving their communities, nations, and the whole of humanity.
