THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, February 19: Dr Bibhuti Kashyap of Kashyap Memorial Eye Hospital has created a world record in retinal surgery by winning two Rhett Buckler Trophies at the annual conference of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in the United States.
With this feat, Dr Kashyap has become the first and only surgeon in the world to win two Rhett Buckler Trophies in the same year. The award is widely regarded in medical circles as the “Oscar of Retinal Surgery.”
Dr Bibhuti Kashyap is the son of noted ophthalmologists Dr B.P. Kashyap and Dr Bharti Kashyap, both well-known names in the field of eye care in Jharkhand.
What makes the award significant
The Rhett Buckler Trophy is presented during a special “Film Festival” segment at the ASRS annual meeting, where retina specialists from across the globe submit videos of rare and complex surgical procedures performed using advanced and innovative techniques.
The trophies are manufactured by RS Owens, the same company that produces the Academy Awards statuettes, adding to their symbolic prestige.
Retinal surgery is considered one of the most delicate and technically demanding procedures in medicine. The award recognises surgeons who successfully handle highly complicated cases and document them for global academic review.
ALSO READ: Jharkhand HC stays probe in Doranda road incident, grants protection to advocate
Felicitated at JHOSCON 2026
Dr Kashyap was felicitated in Ranchi during the 23rd Annual Conference of the Jharkhand Ophthalmology Society (JHOSCON 2026), held recently at Swarnabhoomi on Purulia Road.
He was honoured in the presence of Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari, Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh, AIOS President Dr Partha Biswas, Vice President Dr Mohan Rajan, and other senior ophthalmologists.
Speaking at the event, the Health Minister described the achievement as a matter of pride for Jharkhand and said such accomplishments strengthen the state’s medical reputation at the national and international levels.
Focus on eye care and innovation
The conference featured multiple academic sessions, including expert lectures on refractive surgery, glaucoma management, and the role of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology. Leading specialists from across India participated in discussions on emerging technologies and surgical advancements.
The state government reiterated its commitment to strengthening eye care services, particularly in rural areas where cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy remain significant public health concerns.
Dr Kashyap’s achievement marks a rare international milestone for a surgeon from eastern India and places Ranchi on the global map of advanced retinal surgery.