Shining a Spotlight on Our Healthcare Heroes: Celebrating National Doctors Day with UHAPO Health Services
Doctors Day is a special day celebrated on the 1st of July every year to honor the renowned physician and second Chief Minister of West Bengal, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. The day serves as an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation to all doctors for their hard work, dedication, and selflessness in patient care. On this occasion, let’s remember the invaluable role played by doctors and their contribution to mankind.
How is Doctors Day observed?
The celebration of Doctor’s Day in India involves various activities and events to acknowledge the efforts of doctors by expressing gratitude for their selfless service. On this day, many hospitals, medical institutions, and healthcare organizations organize public functions to honor doctors for their immense contribution to society. People across India express gratitude to their personal doctors by presenting them with greeting cards, flowers, or small gifts. Many doctors and healthcare organizations also conduct free medical camps in rural areas or underserved communities on this day. These camps offer medical check-ups, consultations, and basic treatments to individuals who may not have easy access to healthcare facilities. It is celebrated all over India across different regions and institutions, but the core objective remains the same—to honor the medical profession and appreciate the invaluable services provided by doctors.
History
The first Doctors Day was celebrated in India on July 1st, 1991. The day was established to commemorate and admire Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy for his immense contribution to the medical field. Moreover, his selfless devotion to the country was honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1961.
The Government of India officially designated July 1st as National Doctor’s Day to
commemorate Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy’s birth anniversary. This declaration was made to recognize and acknowledge doctors across the country for their relentless efforts in providing healthcare services to the people. Since its establishment, Doctor’s Day in India has been celebrated every year to appreciate the importance of medical professionals in society and their role in saving lives.
National Doctors Day Theme
This year, National Doctors Day would be observed under the theme of ‘Celebrating Resilience and Healing Hands’. The theme honors the fortitude of the medical professionals who persevered despite the challenges presented while saving countless lives.
About Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy was an eminent Indian physician, freedom fighter, and politician who was born on July 1, 1882, in Patna, Bihar. Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy played a significant role in the field of medicine and politics in India. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Calcutta and went on to pursue postgraduate studies at the University College of London and the University of Edinburgh. After completing his education, he returned to India and started practicing medicine in Kolkata.
Dr. B.C. Roy was highly regarded for his medical expertise and dedication to public health. He made significant contributions to the development of healthcare infrastructure in West Bengal and played a vital role in establishing several medical institutions, including the Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital, and Victoria Institution.
Apart from his medical career, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy actively participated in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. He joined the Indian National Congress and became an influential leader in West Bengal. He served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal for an uninterrupted period of 14 years, from 1948 until his death in 1962.
While his tenure as Chief Minister, Dr. B.C. Roy implemented various progressive policies and initiatives to uplift the state’s socioeconomic conditions. His efforts in the field of healthcare earned him the nickname “Maker of Modern West Bengal.”
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy’s contributions to society were widely recognized and appreciated. He was honored with the Bharat Ratna award, India’s highest civilian award, in 1961. He is also remembered for his philanthropy, simplicity, and dedication to public service.
Today, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy’s legacy continues to inspire and his name is associated with several institutions and organizations. He will be always remembered for his outstanding contributions to the field of medicine.
Significance
Doctor’s Day provides a platform to acknowledge and appreciate the tireless efforts, expertise, and dedication of doctors in providing medical care and promoting public health. It emphasizes the significance of maintaining good health by highlighting the role of doctors in guiding individuals to lead healthier lifestyle habits. It helps to create awareness among the public about various health issues, preventive measures, and the importance of regular medical check-ups.
The observance of Doctors Day promotes a positive doctor-patient relationship that deepens trust and communication by fostering an environment of mutual trust and understanding. It aspires future generations to admire the selfless service and dedication of doctors in the healthcare field. The day also inspires young minds to pursue a career in medicine by motivating them to contribute to the well-being of the nation.