President Droupadi Murmu Hails AIIMS Nagpur as Emerging Medical Powerhouse
In a significant address at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur's second convocation on Wednesday, President Droupadi Murmu celebrated the institution as a burgeoning center for excellence in medical education, cutting-edge research, and comprehensive healthcare services. Invoking the institute's foundational motto, "Swasthyam Sarvārtha Sādhanam," which translates to "good health is the means to achieve all goals," she called upon the graduating students from its early batches to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics and dedication in their medical careers.
Emphasizing Compassion and Service in Modern Medicine
President Murmu underscored that the practice of medicine must fundamentally remain a service to humanity, where compassion, unwavering integrity, and a patient-centric approach are paramount, even amidst rapid technological advancements. "Doctors not only treat diseases but also instil hope and strength in patients and their families," she remarked, stressing that these human qualities are irreplaceable. She further elaborated that while tools like artificial intelligence and digital health innovations can help bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide, they cannot substitute for the essential human touch, honesty, and empathy in patient care.
National Healthcare Progress and Initiatives
Highlighting India's strides in healthcare, the President pointed to flagship programs such as the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which has dramatically expanded access to affordable treatment. With over 43.5 crore health cards issued, this scheme provides coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually. Additionally, she noted the establishment of nearly 1.85 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and significant improvements in healthcare infrastructure, critical care facilities, and digital health services. Efforts to eliminate diseases like tuberculosis and leprosy were also commended as part of the nation's broader health agenda.
Convocation Ceremony and Distinguished Attendees
The prestigious event was graced by several dignitaries, including Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav, alongside faculty members, students, and their families. Dr. Anant Pandhare, President of AIIMS Nagpur, and Dr. (Prof) Prashant P. Joshi, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Nagpur, were also present to oversee the proceedings. During the ceremony, degrees and gold medals were awarded to outstanding students across various disciplines, recognizing their academic achievements.
Academic Achievements and Award Recipients
A total of 210 graduates received their degrees, including:
- 129 MBBS graduates
- 29 MD/MS graduates
- 35 BSc (Hons) Nursing graduates
- 5 MSc graduates
- 12 allied health sciences graduates
Among the top achievers were Dr. Vedavati Bandyopadhyay and Dr. Sunkari Sri Hari Babu in the MD/MS programs, MBBS topper Priyanka, Vaidehi J. Loya in general medicine, and Nikita Joshi, Tauseef Ahmed Laskar, and Arsala Parveen in nursing and allied health programs. President Murmu encouraged all graduates to pursue lifelong learning, foster innovation, and engage in meaningful research while remaining firmly grounded in ethical values and a commitment to societal well-being.
