Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 17: Dr J Paul Kanotra, an eminent ENT specialist from the state, was conferred the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 43rd Annual Conference of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (North-West Zone). The event was held at AIIMS Bathinda from December 13th to 15th, 2024.
With over 50 years of experience in the field, including more than 35 years as a dedicated medical educator, Dr Kanotra has made significant contributions to the specialty. He served as the HoD ENT at Government Medical College, Jammu, and later at ASCOMS Jammu.
A former president of both the North Zone and North-West Zone of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI), Dr Kanotra has also held key positions such as president of the Jammu ENT Society, president of the Medical Teachers Association, and Governing Body Member of the AOI. His academic work is well-recognized, with several publications in national and international journals.
A passionate teacher and researcher, Dr Kanotra played a pivotal role in popularizing the ENT specialty among medical students. He regularly organized quizzes not only within the medical college but also at various conferences, inspiring generations of students. He was instrumental in introducing modern surgical techniques to the Medical College in the early 1980s.
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr Kanotra has been lauded for his social work, particularly for his efforts on behalf of the deaf and dumb community. He has been actively involved in organizing free ENT camps in remote areas, significantly improving the quality of life for many. For his philanthropic contributions, he was honoured by the J&K Samaj Kalyan Kendra.
The conference, which was attended by over 200 delegates, proved to be an academic feast, enriching participants with the latest knowledge and insights in the field of Otolaryngology.