Dr. Reyaz Untoo, a distinguished ophthalmologist and educator, was conferred with the prestigious Sushrut Samman by the Forum of Ophthalmic Teachers of India (FOTI) at its 8th National Assembly, held recently in Chandigarh.
The award ceremony, organized under the aegis of the Eye Research Foundation and Advanced Eye Center PGIMER Chandigarh, recognized Dr. Untoo’s exceptional contributions to the field of ophthalmology.
The Sushrut Samman, the highest honor presented by FOTI, is awarded annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to ophthalmic education and practice. This year, Dr. Untoo, along with other distinguished recipients from across the nation, was acknowledged for his dedication and impactful work in advancing ophthalmology in India.
The 8th National Assembly, hosted at Mount View, Chandigarh, brought together leading ophthalmologists and educators to discuss the latest advancements in the field and strategies to enhance the teaching of undergraduate and postgraduate students in India. The event also served as a platform to exchange knowledge on the future of ophthalmic education and its evolving role in improving healthcare outcomes.
The Sushrut Samman was presented to Dr. Untoo by Padma Bhushan Awardee Dr. K.K. Talwar, a renowned cardiologist, former Chairman of the Medical Council of India (MCI), and former Director of PGIMER Chandigarh. The assembly was presided over by Prof. J.S. Titiyal, President of FOTI, and Dr. Swapan Samanta, the Honorary General Secretary.
Dr. Reyaz Untoo, former Head of Ophthalmology and Principal at SKIMS Medical College Srinagar, is a well-respected figure in ophthalmology and has received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was previously honored with the State Award for Meritorious Public Services and the Bharat Garav Award, among others. Dr. Untoo also received the IMA President’s Award for his outstanding contributions to ophthalmic sciences. Notably, he played a pivotal role as the former Chairperson of the National Programme for Control of Blindness in Kashmir and as the Director of the Central Rehabilitation Centre (CRC) in Srinagar under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (2008–2011).
Expressing his gratitude upon receiving the Sushrut Samman, Dr. Untoo emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing ophthalmic knowledge and highlighted the need for standardizing medical education across the country. He stressed that teachers have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of medical education and healthcare. Dr. Untoo thanked FOTI for recognizing his work and underscored the significance of continued innovation and collaboration in the field of ophthalmology.
The award serves as a recognition of Dr. Untoo’s tireless commitment to improving ophthalmic care and education in India, as well as his broader contributions to public health.
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