Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Thursday highlighted India's role as a global partner during the Covid-19 pandemic while addressing the sixth convocation of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh, where he served as the chief guest.
India's Pandemic Response and Global Solidarity
Addressing the graduating batch, Radhakrishnan said, "India's response to the pandemic reflected not only domestic resilience but also a commitment to global solidarity, as the country extended medical support and assistance to other nations during the crisis." He noted that the experience underscored the importance of a robust public health system and the critical role played by medical professionals during global emergencies.
Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure
Referring to the expansion of AIIMS institutions across the country, Radhakrishnan emphasized that strengthening healthcare infrastructure has been key to improving access to specialized treatment, particularly in remote areas. A total of 386 students graduated at the ceremony, where 23 medals were awarded across courses, including 13 gold, five silver, and five bronze medals.
Call to Serve with Dedication
Urging the graduates to carry forward the lessons of the pandemic, the vice president called on young doctors to "serve with dedication and uphold the trust placed in them by society." In a gesture that drew applause, Radhakrishnan asked the graduating students to stand and acknowledge their parents in the auditorium, recognizing their support and sacrifices throughout the demanding journey of medical education.
Uttarakhand CM Lauds AIIMS Rishikesh
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami lauded AIIMS Rishikesh for extending healthcare services to remote areas using modern techniques and artificial intelligence. Addressing the graduates, he encouraged them to serve in the rural hills of Uttarakhand, combining professional commitment with outreach to underserved communities.
Operational Updates and Telemedicine
Executive director and CEO of AIIMS Rishikesh, Dr. Meenu Singh, announced that the institute's 280-bed satellite center in Kichha, Udham Singh Nagar, is expected to become operational in August this year. She added that over 50,000 patients have benefited from its telemedicine services, while around 300 emergency cases have been airlifted or evacuated through its heli-ambulance facility.
Union Minister and Governor's Messages
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel, who was also present, urged the graduating doctors to remain committed to professional ethics despite challenges. Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) said, "Young doctors play a crucial role in building a healthy nation and should work with that sense of responsibility."
Medal Winners and Student Perspective
Among the awardees, Dr. Devang Agarwal, a resident of Jaipur and currently pursuing a master's in medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh, won seven gold medals for his MBBS. He told TOI, "Aspiring doctors should not let professional pressures overwhelm them and should remain mindful of the privilege of their position, carrying forward their work with resilience, gratitude, and a sense of purpose."
