Dr. Sanduk Ruit felicitated for his contribution to humanity

Internationally acclaimed ophthalmologist and chairperson of the Barbara Foundation Dr. Sanduk Ruit was presented ISA Award for Service to Humanity, Bahrain’s highest award, by the king of Bahrain Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa on Tuesday. He was handed the cash prize of $1 million (Rs 131 million) during the ceremony.

Speaking in the presence of delegates and journalists from across the world, the King of Bahrain congratulated Dr Ruit, who founded Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology along with like-minded colleagues and currently serves as its medical director, for his immense contribution to humanity through his works on the prevention of blindness. “On this auspicious occasion, it is a pleasure to congratulate Dr. Sanduk Ruit on this well-deserved recognition of his valuable and influential works that have made him the most worthy recipient of this honor,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, chairman of the ISA Award Committee, also lauded Dr. Ruit as an example for the world in terms of humanitarianism.

The ISA Award for Service to Humanity was established in 2009 in the name of His Highness the late Amir of Bahrain, Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. It is granted every two years to either individuals or organizations committed to humanitarian work.

In a speech following the award handover, Dr Ruit said that ISA Award represented the true spirit of Bahrain and its people. He thanked the Kingdom of Bahrain for being impartial, inclusive, and doing a grass-roots level study to find a game-changing humanitarian work for the award. “I accept this prestigious award on behalf of millions of patients, their families, my team and the Nepali people whose goodwill and best wishes I bring to this distinguished gathering,” he said.

Dr Ruit also announced his vow to complete at least half a million cataract surgeries in the next five years, targeting those who cannot access and afford the surgery.