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"I am happy that the people have recognised my work. We have to work hard to make rest 16 districts leprosy free," Dr Pattnaik told reporters.
Congratulating Dr Pattnaik, state Health Minister Damodar Rout said, "Other doctors working in the field should learn from the dedication of Dr Pattnaik."
Dr Dharmendra was the first man from India to get this award in 1970 followed by Muralidhar D Amte (Baba Amte) in 1983, Mother Teresa (1984), Dr K V Deskan (2000), Eliazar T Rose (2005) and Dr E P Fritschi (2006).
Damien-Dutton Society for Leprosy AID INC was founded by Staff Sgt Howard E Crouch, Medical Corps US Army in 1944.
It presents yearly award to a notable person who has made a significant contribution towards the conquest of Leprosy and has got Worldwide recognition.
Dr Pattanaik, presently working as State Leprosy Officer, Odisha and State Nodal Officer NCD programme at Directorate of Health Services, Bhubaneswar, is also Honorary Secretary, Hind Kustha Nivaran Sangh, Odisha State Branch since 1996.