Context: Surgical oncologist R. Ravi Kannan, Director of the Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam, is one of the Ramon Magsaysay award winners for 2023.

• His pioneering efforts have revolutionized cancer treatment in Assam by prioritizing people-centric and pro-poor healthcare solutions.

• He is credited with revolutionising cancer treatment in Assam through people-centric and pro-poor healthcare.

Dr. Kannan’s Inspiring Work

• Under Dr. Kannan’s guidance, CCHRC evolved from having limited facilities to encompassing 28 departments, including oncology, pathology, radiology, microbiology, epidemiology, and palliative care.

• The hospital introduced pro-poor measures such as free treatment, lodging, meals, ad hoc employment for caregivers, and a homecare program to address patients’ challenges in continuing treatment due to poverty and distance.

• The hospital team extended their support by providing training to family members in pain management and palliative care, and distributing free medicines.

• As a result, the compliance rate for cancer treatment increased remarkably, from 28% to 70%.

About Ramon Magsaysay Award

• The Ramon Magsaysay Award, established in 1958, stands as a significant accolade, often referred to as Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.

• This prestigious award honors individuals and organizations in Asia for their exceptional contributions to society across various domains.

Who was Ramon Magsaysay?

• Ramon Magsaysay was the Philippines’ president from 1953 until his tragic death in a plane crash in 1957.

• He gained prominence during World War II when Japanese forces occupied the Philippines, then a US colony.

• In December 1953, he was elected president from the Nationalist Party, the country’s oldest political party.

• Post-war chaos gripped the Philippines in 1946, accompanied by a widening gap between the rich and poor, exacerbated by the expansion of capitalism.

• Amidst suspicions of communist affiliations and demands for peasant rights, leaders were targeted by the government, aligned with the USA.

• Magsaysay’s administrative and military strategies played a pivotal role in countering the perceived threat of communism.

Significance of the Award

• The Ramon Magsaysay Award symbolizes a deep commitment to altruism and service, acknowledging outstanding contributions that make a positive impact on society.

• It is a reminder that individuals and organizations can effect transformative change through their selfless efforts.