Mysore/Mysuru: Noted Doctor couple Dr. H.R. Manikarnika (Ophthalmologist) and Dr. B.N. Sheshadri (General Physician) were conferred the prestigious ‘Dr. C.N. Mruthyunjayappa Adarsha Vaidya Seva Award’ at a programme jointly organised by Mysuru District and City Units of Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Kadali Mahila Vedike at Sri Rajendra Auditorium in JSS Hospital premises here on Monday.

Speaking after conferring the award, Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji said that the Medical field is growing by leaps and bounds over the years. Noting that Medical Tourism is gaining popularity, he said that maintaining a balanced diet is key for good health.

Maintaining that Dr. Mruthyunjayappa became popular by his service to the society, the Seer observed that the awardee couple Dr. Manikarnika and Dr. Sheshadri too are known for their service. Contending that a Doctor’s affectionate and patient hearing to the patient’s health issues would go a long way in cure, the Seer said that Dr. Manikarnika’s service as a Government Doctor is noteworthy.

Earlier, District Minister S.T. Somashekar, who spoke after inaugurating the programme, said that the service of a Doctor was more learnt during the COVID pandemic. Recalling the efforts of Doctors and other medical staff during the crisis, he said that the Seer was instrumental in the setting up of an Oxygen Plant in JSS Hospital premises during the crucial period, when the city was badly in need of Medical Oxygen.

Stating that it was Sri Deshikendra Swamiji, who tipped off on black marketing of Remdesivir injections when the pandemic was at its peak, Somashekar said that the Seer’s tip off helped the Police in busting the profiteering racket.

Noted Humorist and retired  Principal Prof. M. Krishnegowda, who delivered the felicitation address, said it is Doctors who explore the secrets behind the mysterious world of creations.

Noting that health does not necessarily mean only physical health, he observed that mental, spiritual and social health too are vital in these days of mechanised world. Highlighting that doctors need to be always committed to their service, Prof. Krishnegowda said that a Doctor can have satisfaction only if a patient is cured of his/ her ills.