Three Indian Doctors Honoured with Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers Champions Award

Three Indian doctors—Dr. Abhay Bang, Dr. Rani Bang, and Dr. Naveen Thacker—have been honoured with the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers Champions Award for their outstanding contributions to community healthcare. Their work has significantly influenced public health initiatives, including inspiring the ASHA programme.

Drs. Abhay and Rani Bang: Pioneers in Rural Health

The couple founded SEARCH (Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health), a public health organisation based in Shodhgram, Gadchiroli. They strategically chose Gadchiroli as it was a district requiring the most support in healthcare services.
Their initiatives in malaria prevention—including bednets, spraying, and medicines—helped reduce malaria cases by 60%, improving health outcomes in the region.

Dr. Naveen Thacker: Contributions in Paediatrics

Dr. Thacker was recognised for his pioneering work in paediatrics, including:

• Polio eradication efforts
• Rebuilding hospitals after the 2001 Gujarat earthquake
• Serving as Executive Director of the Indian Paediatric Association