Reinforcing its commitment to strengthening primary healthcare
partnerships, KMC Hospital Mangaluru, in association with the Family Doctors Association
(DK Branch) and the Ayush Federation of India (DK Branch), celebrated Doctors& Day 2026
with a special felicitation ceremony recognizing the invaluable contribution of physicians
working for the wellness of the community in the peripheries who continue to serve as the
first point of care for countless patients.

The event, held at KMC Hospital, Dr B R Ambedkar Circle, Mangaluru, brought together
more than 150 doctors from the Ayush Federation of India (DK Branch), Family Doctors
Association (DK Branch), Heads of Departments (HODs), and other medical professionals
for an evening of appreciation, learning, and collaboration. The programme was presided
over by Dr. Dilip G. Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE  Mangalore Campus. The celebration
featured the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, cake cutting, felicitation of distinguished

referral doctors, followed by an edutainment session on "Investing Tips for Doctors" by
renowned financial expert Dr. Pramod Rai, MBBS, MS, MCh (Urology), AIIMS New Delhi,
Senior Consultant Urologist and Joint Director Medical & Health Services, SAIL. He shared
practical insights on financial planning and investment strategies tailored for medical
professionals, encouraging doctors to focus not only on their patients& health but also on
securing their own financial future through informed investment decisions.

As part of the celebration, KMC Hospital Mangaluru honoured Dr. S Srikanth Shenoy from
Ashoknagar, Mangalore, Dr. K. Krishnaraj Bhat from Shirthady, Dr. Krishna M. Gokhale
from Shaktinagar, Mangalore, Dr. Denzil John Noronha from Belthangady, Dr.
Venkatakrishna Bhat S from Sulia, Dr. Krishna Bhat C from Kanhangad, Dr. Harikiran T.
Bangera from Kasargod, Dr. Charles S. Manian from Thaliparamba, and Dr. Surekha N.
Hoskeri CMO – New Mangalore Port Authority for their outstanding service and unwavering
commitment to patient care.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pramod Kunder, Cluster Director, KMC Hospital Mangaluru,
said "Doctors  Day celebrates the dedication and compassion of every medical professional. Family
physicians and physician’s working for the wellness of the community in the peripheries are the
foundation of quality healthcare, ensuring timely diagnosis and continuity of care. At KMC Hospital
Mangaluru, we are proud to honour their invaluable contributions and strengthen partnerships that
improve patient outcomes."

The celebration reflected KMC Hospital Mangaluru & s continued commitment to recognizing
medical excellence, fostering meaningful partnerships with family physicians, and building a
collaborative healthcare ecosystem that ultimately benefits patients and the wider
community. The programme was graced by Dr. Sadashiva Polanaya, President and Dr G K Bhat
Sankabithlu Secretary, Family Doctors Association (R) Managlore, and Dr. Krishna Gokhale,

President, and Dr Suresh Negalaguli Ayush Federation of India (DK Branch), Karnataka, who
reiterated the importance of fostering stronger collaborations between hospitals and community
physicians to deliver accessible, patient centric, and comprehensive healthcare.