Renowned ayurveda doctor Padmasree Dr P K Warrier, managing trustee of Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala, Malappuram, Kerala, has been bestowed with the 'Ashtanga Ratna' award for his lifetime contribution in the field of Ayurveda. The award was instituted by the Kerala government.

Dr V K Sasikumar, chief medical officer, Government Ayurveda Dispensary, Paravoor, Kollam, has been selected for 'Charaka' award, which was instituted to honour the best Medical Officer of ISM Department. Award for the best ayurvedic doctor in the private sector went to Dr D Ramanathan, chief physician and managing director, Sitaram Ayurveda Pharmacy, Thrissur.

Dr S K Ramachandran, professor, Department of Kaumarabhrithya, Government Ayurveda College, Thiruvanathapuram, has been chosen for the 'Athreya' award instituted to honour the best teaching staff member of Ayurveda Colleges. Former director of Ayurvedic Medical Education, Dr P K Mohanlal has been selected for the prestigious 'Dhanwanthari Award', which is given for outstanding and comprehensive contribution in ayurvedic treatment and research.

Besides, the selection committee has adjudged Dr B T Vasudevan, DMO, Pathanamthitta, as the best district medical officer of ISM in the State.

The five best doctor awards were instituted by the Kerala government to honour eminent doctors in Ayurveda discipline. The awards are given in recognition to the distinguished service being rendered by the ayurvedic doctors of both in government and private sectors.