Union Minister Anupriya Patel Calls for AI-Literate Doctors at AIIMS Mangalagiri Convocation
In a keynote address at the second convocation ceremony of AIIMS Mangalagiri, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel asserted that artificial intelligence (AI) could never replace clinicians but urged new MBBS graduates to become AI-literate and AI-ready. She emphasized that leveraging AI in the medical profession is essential to augment capacity and efficiency in rendering medical care, reducing the workload of healthcare professionals, and enhancing diagnostic services.
AI as a Necessity in Modern Healthcare
Anupriya Patel, who participated as the chief guest, stated, "AI is no longer an option but has become a necessity, revolutionising all spheres of life." She highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's healthcare sector is undergoing transformative strides, with universal health coverage transitioning from a distant goal to an achievable reality. Healthcare in India is moving from being a privilege to becoming a fundamental right, redefining the nation's healthcare story.
Lifelong Learning and Ethical Practice
The minister described the convocation as a defining moment for young medical professionals, noting that while formal education concludes, learning in medicine must remain lifelong. She underscored that doctors carry the trust and aspirations of society and must combine clinical excellence with empathy and ethical practice. This message was reinforced by Education Minister Nara Lokesh, the guest of honour, who reminded students that doctors occupy a unique moral space and advised them not to "outsource empathy." He stressed that compassion must remain central to medical practice, even amidst rapid technological advancements.
Tribute to Doctors and Irreplaceable Human Qualities
Both speakers paid tribute to the selfless service of doctors during the Covid-19 pandemic, reaffirming that while technology and AI will continue to advance healthcare, empathy, humility, and the healing power of human touch remain irreplaceable. They emphasized that AI should be viewed as a tool to support, not supplant, the human elements of medical care.
Convocation Ceremony Details
During the event, degrees were conferred upon 49 MBBS graduates, 5 MD/MS postgraduate students, and 4 post-doctoral certificate course (PDCC) students. The ceremony was attended by AIIMS Mangalagiri president Major General Dr Tapan Kumar Saha, AIIMS Mangalagiri executive director professor Dr Ahanthem Santa Singh, and other dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in the institution's academic calendar.
