National Doctor’s Day in India is commemorated every 1st July to acknowledge the significant role doctors and physicians play in society. Known for their relentless service and dedication, these individuals are revered on this day. Furthermore, the day also marks the birth and death anniversaries of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy – one of the most renowned physicians in India’s history.
The Origins of National Doctor’s Day
The first National Doctor’s day was observed in July 1991 by the Indian Medical Association (IMA); a representative national voluntary association advocating for Doctors of the Modern Scientific System of Medicine. Established in 1928 and headquartered in New Delhi, IMA is devoted to safeguarding the interests of medical professionals while simultaneously ensuring community well-being.
In 1946, IMA played a pivotal role in the organization of the World Medical Association (WMA) and became a founding member. The WMA has its headquarters in France and operates globally.
Annual Themes: Responding to Current Times
Each year, a theme that reflects relevant societal issues is chosen for National Doctor’s Day. In 2020, in response to the global pandemic, the theme was ‘Lessen the Mortality of Covid-19’. The primary objective of this theme was to raise awareness about asymptomatic hypoxia and advocate early aggressive therapy.
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (1882-1962): A Pillar of Medical Excellence
Beyond being a renowned physician, Dr. B.C. Roy was also a freedom fighter, an educationist, and a politician born in Patna Bengal Presidency, British India, in 1882. A follower of Brahmo Samaj, he played a crucial role in the Civil disobedience movement, which began in Bengal in 1930.
Dr. B.C. Roy served as Mahatma Gandhi’s physician and was eventually elected as the second Chief Minister of West Bengal. His contributions to urban development led to the establishment of five prominent cities – Durgapur, Kalyani, Bidhannagar, Ashokenagar, and Habra.
The British Medical Journal esteemed him greatly in his obituary, labeling Dr. B.C. Roy as the “first medical consultant in the subcontinent of India, who towered over his contemporaries in several fields.”
Recognitions – Dr. B.C. Roy’s Legacy
Dr. B.C. Roy has received numerous accolades for his work. The Government of India honored him with the country’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1961. Moreover, in commemoration of his contributions, the B.C. Roy National Award was instituted in 1976. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding work in various fields such as medicine, politics, science, philosophy, literature, and arts.
National Doctor’s Day is thus more than a celebration of physicians’ dedicated service; it’s a reminder of the legacy of remarkable doctors like Dr. B.C. Roy – individuals who stretched the boundaries of their profession to serve society.
Last Modified: February 8, 2024