Dr Ravi Kannan, a renowned oncologist, has been named the CNN-News18 Indian of The Year 2023 in the social change category. Dr Kannan, who left Chennai in 2007 to lead a charitable cancer hospital in Assam’s Silchar, was recognized for his exceptional contributions to the community. The award was presented to Dr Kannan by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Indu Malhotra at a ceremony in New Delhi.
Speaking about his achievement, Dr Kannan humbly remarked, Any recognition at home is very moving and meaningful. I just represent a large number of people, our society, members of our staff, our supporters try to hold hands to improve people’s lives. I feel small and humbled…At the end of the day, you will feel fulfilled about distributing happiness.
Dr Kannan is the director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, where he provides free or subsidized cancer care treatments to thousands of patients each year, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Through his people-centric and pro-poor healthcare approach, he has revolutionized cancer treatment in Assam.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr Kannan shared, The hospital in Assam was founded by lay people, and they had responded to a local need of deficit in care. Their local doctor spent time with us. Initially, my wife, Sita, was resistant about bomb blasts and floods… Eventually, we kept on persevering. His wife, Sita, expressed her support, saying, We realized, in life, sometimes you have to take the plunge.
Dr Kannan’s dedication and expertise have previously been recognized with the Padma Shri award in 2020 and the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay award last year. He continues to make a significant impact on the lives of patients in need.
The other nominees for the social change category included individuals such as Manju Srivastava, who is working to provide education and training in remote villages, and Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju, a lawyer couple advocating for the LGBTQ community. Pushpa NM, who has facilitated 1,070 examinations for blind students, and Sujit Chatterjee, also known as the ‘two rupees teacher,’ were also recognized for their noteworthy contributions.
Now in its 13th edition, the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year award acknowledges Indians who have made significant contributions in various fields and have had a profound impact on the nation. The award has gained immense credibility since its inception in 2006 and has honored notable figures such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, and Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi.
Dr Ravi Kannan’s recognition as the Indian of The Year 2023 in the social change category further highlights his outstanding commitment to improving cancer care in Assam and his contributions to society as a whole. His dedication and selflessness continue to inspire and uplift communities in need.
