30/01/2026
Award recognises outstanding service in the medical field
Ministers, MPs and expert doctors stress need for government–private partnership to strengthen rural healthcare services
H/L-VK and BM Healthcare Excellence Conclave felicitates 36 achiever doctors
Vijay Karnataka hosted the prestigious VK & BM Health Excellence and Conclave Conclave on January 21, focusing on reforms in health and medical services, preventive care, technology adoption, and rural healthcare. State ministers, MPs, and medical experts discussed challenges, solutions, and government objectives, including public–private partnerships in hospital management. The event also honoured 36 doctors with Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognising their contributions to advancing healthcare in the state.
Quality Healthcare Reaching the Last Mile
Minister For Health and Family Welfare Dinesh Gundu Rao said the government aims to provide quality, affordable healthcare to all, emphasising preventive care as non-communicable diseases rise with economic development. He highlighted the need for public education on lifestyle and health, noting private sector support is secondary. Rao pointed out inefficiencies in government facilities and the role of private dialysis centres, stressing reforms to improve system efficiency, monitor private institutions, and prioritise preventive measures.
Treatment Costs Can Be Controlled Only Through Government Hospitals
Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development Dr Sharan Prakash Patil
said the state is strengthening public healthcare and medical education to provide quality services at the grassroots. Karnataka has 71 medical colleges, with plans for a government college, cancer hospital, and trauma centre in every district. The state produces around 7,500 doctors annually, with over 6,000 postgraduate seats. New super-speciality hospitals and skill labs are being set up, including a free organ transplant hospital in Ballari in partnership with the Azim Premji Foundation.
Affordable Services for the Poor
Bengaluru Rural MP Dr C.N. Manjunath urged private hospitals in tier-2 and tier-3 cities to get ten-year tax exemptions to improve rural healthcare. He highlighted doctor shortages in villages, suggesting incentives, better salaries, PG NEET marks for rural service, and security measures. Dr Manjunath recommended 24x7 hub-and-spoke health centres, AI-driven cost-effective care, uniform antibiotic policies, and budget allocation for immunotherapy, while stressing attention to staffing alongside infrastructure.
Expert Opinions and Suggestions
Former president of the Indian Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons (IACTS), Dr Vivek Jawali said urban healthcare benefits from private and corporate support, but rural areas rely entirely on the government. He noted PPP models often fall short due to differing objectives. He suggested expanding successful models like Jayadeva Institute for cardiac care to other cities and emergencies, establishing medical colleges in every district, strengthening PHCs and hospitals with CSR funds, using technology to link rural centres, involving retired experts, and prioritising intensive care for young children.
Government to Build Infrastructure, Private Sector to Manage
Dr Ramamohan S. Bhatt suggested the government build healthcare infrastructure but let the private sector manage it with incentives like tax breaks or concessional utilities. He favoured incentive-based rural service for doctors over mandatory laws and called for more centres of excellence in nephrology, proposing six to seven across Karnataka, similar to institutions like Jayadeva and NIMHANS, to expand specialised care throughout the state.
Need for Training in Advanced Technology
Dr Mohan Keshavamurthy, Chairman of the Urology Specialty Council for the Fortis group said India has advanced technologies like robotic surgery but lacks sufficient training opportunities. Surgical skills still rely on the guru–shishya model, forcing many doctors to train abroad. He urged the private sector to train government doctors at district centres to increase skilled surgeons. While building hospitals is easy, ensuring trained surgeons are available year-round remains a challenge, making skill development and continuous training essential.
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Injury To World Glory
Olympic athlete Anju Bobby George recalled a challenging phase in 2000 when a sports injury left her unable to walk for nearly two years, highlighting the lack of sports medicine awareness in India. While training in the US before the 2003 World Championship, she learned she was born with only one kidney and was advised not to compete. Supported by her husband and coach, she persevered, developing mental strength that helped her win India’s first World Championship medal.
Creating Awareness
Actor Radhika Narayan stressed the importance of addressing mental health issues and removing the stigma associated with them. “Even today, talking about mental health is seen as a taboo in society. There is a fear that if one speaks about depression or anxiety, people may label them as mentally unstable. It is important to remove this fear and hesitation,” she said.
Driving the State’s Progress
Deepak Saluja, CEO of Vijaya Karnataka and Bangalore Mirror said the newspaper’s role goes beyond reporting news. “Vijay Karnataka is not limited to just publishing news. It is our traditional responsibility to act as a catalyst for the progress of Karnataka in whatever way possible,” he said. He added that people have immense trust in the newspaper. “There is a strong belief among readers that if something appears in Vijaya Karnataka, it is true. We are proud that we consistently deliver the most credible news to our readers,” he said.
Saluja added that Karnataka’s identity on the global stage as an information technology hub is a matter of pride. “We are waiting for the day when Karnataka is recognised as the number one medical hub not just in India and Asia, but possibly in the entire world.” he said.
Journalism with Social Responsibility
“Along with news reporting, Vijay Karnataka is actively engaged in continuous social initiatives,” said Editor Sudarshan Channangihalli. He said the newspaper regularly provides health-related information, creates public awareness and honours achievers in the healthcare sector through such platforms. Vijay Karnataka has also run sustained campaigns on issues such as food safety, organ donation, road safety and drug abuse, in association with the government, police, educational institutions and hospitals.
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AWARD WINNERS QUOTES
1. “Receiving the Vijay Karnataka award for my service in the medical field has added to my sense of honour. It has further strengthened my commitment to future work related to cardiac care.”
— Dr. Ashwini Kumar Pasarad
Senior Consultant - Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences & Research, Chief Cardiothoracic & Transplant Surgeon Sparsh Hospital - RR Nagar
2. “Winning this prestigious award is a proud moment for the entire team. It has encouraged us to pursue further innovation and research. We thank Vijay Karnataka for this recognition.”
— Dr. Narayan Hulse
Principal Director - Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Fortis Hospital,
3. “I have been serving in a government hospital for the past 16 years, and it is truly motivating that Vijay Karnataka has recognised my work with this award. It inspires me to serve with even greater dedication.”
— Dr Girish Gowda,
Maxillofacial Surgeon, Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Trauma and Orthopedics
4. “This initiative by Vijay Karnataka is truly commendable. I am happy that my service in plastic and cosmetic surgery has been recognised through this award.”
— Dr Srikanth V
Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon
Clinique Belle & Manipal Hospital HAL Airport Road
5. “This prestigious Vijay Karnataka award has increased my sense of responsibility. I am glad that my work in rural healthcare has been recognised and encouraged. It motivates me to continue my service with renewed commitment.”
— Dr Geetha, Founder, Krishna Hospital, Nanjangud, Mysuru
6. “Receiving this award in the field of neurology is a moment of celebration for our entire team. This recognition inspires us to adopt newer technologies and drive innovation in neurological care.”
— Dr. Rajakumar V Deshpande
Director - Neurosciences, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road
7. “I am grateful for the award recognising my contribution to the treatment and rehabilitation of sportspersons. This honour motivates me to continue delivering better care.”
—Dr. Pradeep Kocheeppan
Senior Consultant – Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Apollo Hospitals
8. “It is a matter of pride that Vijay Karnataka has recognised my service in the field of plastic surgery and honoured me with this award. It motivates me not only to provide advanced treatment but also to create greater awareness about plastic surgery.”
— Dr. Amrika Seshadri, Director
Dr. Amrika's Aesthetics- Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center
9. “We are grateful for the award conferred in the renal sciences and transplant field. This recognition further motivates us to deliver advanced transplant care with expertise and innovative approaches.”
— Renal Sciences and Transplant Team, Sparsh Hospital
10. “We are thankful to Vijay Karnataka for this award. It inspires us to continue our duty of serving patients with care and compassion.”
— Dr Sneha Shetty, Clinical Director, Vriksh Fertility
11. “I am delighted that Vijay Karnataka has recognised our efforts and services in cancer treatment through this award. It has strengthened our resolve to serve patients with greater commitment and dedication.”
— Dr. Anil Kumar M R
Chairman & Managing Director, Oncoville Cancer Hospital
12. “Being honoured for my service in bone and joint replacement and keyhole surgery is a proud moment. I thank the Vijay Karnataka team and my mentors for their support.”
— Dr. Shankar. E
Chairman, MD and Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr Shankar's Orthopedic Specialty Centre, Basaveshwaranagar
13. “I thank Vijay Karnataka for recognising my work through this award. It has increased my sense of responsibility in the field of orthopaedic surgery and robotic joint replacement.”
— Dr. Sunil G Kini
Head of Department and Senior Consultant Orthopaedic and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, Manipal Hospitals
14. “Receiving this award brings immense happiness. Our goal is to ensure that every patient, irrespective of financial background, has access to world-class treatment.”
— Dr. Girish B. Navasundi
Senior Consultant & Interventional Cardiologist, Certified TAVI Specialist
Director Cath Lab, Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road
15. “We have been providing continuous service for many years. Vijay Karnataka has recognised our work with this award and encouraged us further. We are grateful to Vijay Karnataka.”
— Dr Shankar V., Senior Consultant, General Physician, Manipal Hospital, Malleswaram
16. “We thank Vijay Karnataka for recognising our cardiology department among the top three. This award motivates us to serve patients with even greater care and dedication.”
— Dr. Kishore KS - Chief Interventional Cardiologist- Sagar Hospitals, Banashankari
17. “Shekhar Hospital will continue providing treatment at affordable rates to patients. This award inspires doctors to deliver even more dedicated service.”
— Dr. Rajashekar Y.L.
CEO & The Medical Director, Shekar Eye Hospital, J.P. Nagar
18. “I have been working in healthcare for the past 24 years. I am grateful to Vijay Karnataka for recognising my contributions to the medical field with this award.”
— Dr. K.N Trivikram Rao
Founder-Dr. Trivikram's All Smiles Dental
19. “This award inspires other doctors to perform their best. It is a recognition that belongs to patients, my team and fellow doctors.”
— Dr. Raghunath Krishnappa, Director and Head of Urological Oncology and Robotic surgery, HCG Cancer Hospital
20. “It is a matter of pride to accept this award on behalf of the Kauvery Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru.”
— Dr Ramamohan S. Bhatt, Director, Nephrology, Kauvery Hospital
21. “We thank Vijay Karnataka for recognising the achievements of Aster Hospital. This award motivates our team to work with even more enthusiasm.”
— Dr Naveen Ganjoo and Dr. Rommel S ., Senior Consultants, Liver Surgery, Aster RV Hospital
22. “We congratulate Vijay Karnataka for giving us the opportunity to participate in such a wonderful programme. This award has inspired us to deliver even better care.”
— Oncology Department, Sagar Hospitals
23. Receiving this award alongside my father is a special moment. We are grateful to Vijay Karnataka for recognising the work of Rajarajeswari Medical College Hospital. This is an unforgettable experience, and I thank Vijay Karnataka for this opportunity.”
— Dr. Santosh Saklecha
Founder and Director-Ghar Pe Diagnostics
24. “It is a proud moment that Vijaya Karnataka has recognised our oncology and Hemato-oncology services at Fortis, Bannerghatta Road. The event also provided an opportunity to meet senior experts. This award motivates us for the next steps in our journey.”
— Dr. Niti Krishna Raizada
Principal Director - Medical Oncology & Hemato Oncology, Fortis Hospitals,
25. “I am delighted that my contributions to dentistry have been recognised with this award. Vijaya Karnataka’s recognition has further strengthened my sense of responsibility.”
—Dr. Shilpa Shashikiran
Founder & Chief Dental Surgeon
Orchards Dental & Implant Center Sadashiva Nagar
26. “I thank Vijay Karnataka for this award. It inspires me to deliver even better service and brings immense joy.”
— Dr. Vijay Girish
Senior Consultant – Sports Orthopaedics & Arthroscopic Surgeon, Robotic Hip & Knee Joint Replacement Surgeon
HOSMAT Hospital, Vijaysheela Sports–Orthopaedics Clinic
27. “It is truly heartening to have our dedicated services in Ayurveda recognised. The award for our work in the field of diabetes belongs to our entire team.”
— Dr. Yamuna B S
Founder, Guduchi Ayurveda, A National Brand for Diabetes Reversal
Guduchi Ayurveda
28. “Receiving this award for our work in cardiology at Fortis, Bannerghatta Road, is a proud moment for the entire team. It inspires us to deliver better services in the field of cardiology and to pursue new research.”
— . Dr Vivek Jawali
Chairman - Cardiac Sciences, Fortis Hospitals,
29.“Vijay Karnataka has recognised my work in orthopaedic surgery and joint replacement. This award motivates me to contribute even more in this field.”
— .Dr. PC Jagadeesh
Senior Orthopaedic Robotic Joint Replacement and Arthroscopy Surgeon
Kauvery Hospital
30. “This award has given our work greater recognition and support. We thank Vijay Karnataka for acknowledging our service.”
— Dr. Akshay Dhanda
Senior Consultant-Surgeon, Manipal Hospital Jayanagar
31. “It is a proud moment that Vijay Karnataka has recognised my service and surgical work in the orthopaedic and joint replacement department at Sparsh Hospital, RR Nagar.”
— Dr. Raviprasad Kattimani, Consultant – Orthopedics & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Sparsh Hospital
32. “This programme that recognises and honours doctors is truly commendable. Receiving this award brings me great joy.”
— Dr. Bikkamchand .S
Chairman, Santosh Diagnostic & Scan Centre
33. “I am honoured that Vijay Karnataka has recognised my work in cardiology. Receiving this award alongside several other medical specialists is a proud moment for me.”
— Dr Venkatesh, Cardiology Specialist, Sparsh Hospital, Sarjapur Road
34. “It is a matter of pride and joy that Vijay Karnataka has recognised the contributions and services of Sparsh Hospital. This recognition has strengthened our sense of responsibility.”
— Dr Shivakumar, Head, Neurology Department, Sparsh Group of Hospitals
35. “I am deeply grateful to Vijay Karnataka for recognising the work of Rajarajeswari Medical College with this award.”
—Major General (Dr.) N. Srinath, Professor and Head, Department of Urology.
36. “Vijay Karnataka’s initiative to recognise achievers in the medical field is truly commendable. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire Vijay Karnataka team for acknowledging our work.”
— Dr. Mohan Keshavamurthy
Principal Director - Renal Sciences, Fortis Hospitals.
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PHOTO CAPTION-Ministers and experts engaged in a panel discussion on enhancing healthcare and medical services and identifying key interventions.
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