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Raising a toast to Indo-French friendship

— Photo: T. Singaravelou

French honour: Ambassador of France in India Jerome Bonnafont presents the award to Dr. Nallam.

PUDUCHERRY: Dr. Nallam. V was given a standing ovation, when the surgeon, who had been conferred with the ‘Chevalier de la legion d’honneur’ at a function held on the lawns of the French Consulate here on Saturday, concluded his acceptance speech with the slogan “Vive l’amitie Franco-Indian!” which meant “long live Indo-French friendship.”

It was a happy occasion for Puducherians as the 63-year-old doctor was the second person in the Union Territory to receive France’s highest civilian award. The first Puducherrian to be honoured with the award was eminent jurist David Annusamy. The award carries a medal and citation.

Ambassador of France in India Jerome Bonnafont said he was happy to honour Dr. Nallam with the “highest civilian award which was instituted by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 to distinguish people of special merits. It is conferred on persons for devoted service to France or for general causes such as culture or care for the disabled.”

Speaking to The Hindu, Dr. Nallam said he was nominated for the award last year not only for his contributions as a professional but also in recognition of his service to society.

He had basic education in French, before his pursuit of medicine in Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research in Puducherry and Government Stanley Medical College in Chennai.

“We have done a lot of research in collaboration with St. Louis relating to genetic research in diabetes. Another research project has been taken up with the French cancer institute. My hospital has been recognised as a training institute for medical and nursing students from France,” he said.

Dr. Nallam also has a remarkable track record in extending service to the community. Among them are refurbishing the image of Alliance Francaise after Dr. Nallam took over as its president in 1999, renovating the famous heritage building ‘Maison Colombani’, encouraging locals to conserve other heritage buildings in the town, and guiding the Historical Society of Puducherry. He has played a significant role in extending free medical service to people through dispensaries set up in four villages and by running a school for mentally retarded children. “By doing so, we are only sharing the misery of others,” says the unassuming surgeon.

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