However, it wasn’t an easy task. He says, “I had almost lost hope of getting the name in the record book as they took over eight months to scrutinise and categorise it. Then finally two weeks back I got a call and received the letter.”

Dr Alappat’s healing touch doesn’t stop here; he has been involved in proving free medical treatment to tribals in Talwada near Dahanu for the last 15 years. He religiously visits Talwada every alternate Sunday without having missed a single appointment in 15 years, he stresses. He is also associated with eye donation camps and the rehabilitation of HIV+ children in Asangaon.

The continuous service to humanity does leave little time for his family and friends. “Everything comes at a price, but I manage to devote time to my family. My friends have also been generous with monetary help for all my projects. They have been very supportive,” he beams.

This man who is on a mission to serve humanity says, “I have a principle that is in God’s teachings. Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you do it to me. I live life with this attitude.”