Professor Dr. Riyaz Untoo, former Principal and Head of the Ophthalmology Department at SKIMS Medical College, Srinagar, and Dr. Sajad Mohi ud Din, Assistant Professor and Head of Ophthalmology at Government Medical College Doda, were honored at the 8th National Assembly of the Forum of Ophthalmic Teachers of India (FOTI) under the Eye Research Foundation, PGI Chandigarh. The awards were presented by Padma Bhushan awardee, Professor Dr. K.K. Talwar, a renowned cardiologist and former MCI chairman.
Dr. Untoo received the prestigious Sushrut Samman Award in recognition of his dedicated teaching career, while Dr. Mohi ud Din was awarded the Young Ophthalmic Teacher Gold Medal Award 2024 for his contributions to research, skill transfer, and innovation in eye healthcare.
The assembly, which was presided over by Padma Shri awardee Professor Dr. J.S. Tityal and other prominent ophthalmic leaders, also featured Dr. Untoo as a judge and moderator for faculty talks and research presentations. Dr. Mohi ud Din shared insights on his groundbreaking research in surgical correction of severe ptosis.
Both doctors have made significant contributions to ophthalmology in Kashmir and beyond. Dr. Untoo is a former chairperson of the National Programme for Control of Blindness in Kashmir and Director of the Central Rehabilitation Centre in Srinagar, while Dr. Mohi ud Din is actively involved in implementing the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Blindness in Doda.
