A city laparoscopic surgeon has been selected for the prestigious Dr BC Roy Award for Eminent Medical Person for 2015.

This is the second time that Dr C Palanivelu, chairman of the Gem Hospital & Research Centre, is receiving the award, the first being in 2006 in the Speciality Development category, namely gastroenterology and laparoscopic surgery.

Dr Palaniveli expressed his joy at being conferred the honour. President Pranab Mukherjee will present the award in January.

Instituted by the Government of India, the Dr BC Roy Award is the highest honour for a medical person. The announcement was made by Medical Council of India. The award carries a medal, certificate and Rs 1 lakh cash.