CELEBRATING NATIONAL DOCTOR'S DAY & HONOURING DR. BIDHAN CHANDRA ROY

Every year on July 1st, India celebrates National Doctor's Day, a day dedicated to recognise the invaluable contributions of doctors to society. This day is not only a humble tribute to the immense contribution of the medical fraternity but also a commemoration of the birth and death anniversary of one of India’s most distinguished physicians, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. As we celebrate National Doctor's Day, it's essential to delve into the significance of this observance and the remarkable legacy of Dr. B.C. Roy.

The Significance of National Doctor's Day

National Doctor's Day is a time to express gratitude and appreciation for the dedication, compassion, and relentless efforts of doctors who work tirelessly to save lives and improve the health of individuals and communities. It is a day to acknowledge their sacrifices, particularly evident during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where healthcare professionals stood at the forefront, risking their lives for the well-being of others.

This day serves as a reminder of the critical role that doctors play in our lives, not just in treating illnesses but also in promoting preventive care, advancing medical research, and advocating for public health. It is an opportunity for patients, families, and communities to say thank you to their doctors for their unwavering commitment to the profession.

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy: A Legacy of Excellence

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, born on July 1, 1882, and passing away on the same date in 1962, was a pioneering figure in the field of medicine and public service in India. His life and career are a testament to the profound impact that one individual can have on society.

Dr. Roy was born in Bankipore, Patna, in a distinguished family. His academic journey was nothing short of extraordinary. After completing his medical education in India, he went on to study at the University of Calcutta and subsequently at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. He earned his MRCP (Member of the Royal College of Physicians) and FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) degrees, showcasing his exceptional dedication to the medical profession.

Upon his return to India, Dr. Roy dedicated himself to the practice of medicine and the betterment of public health. He served as the personal physician to Mahatma Gandhi and was a mentor to numerous medical students. His contributions to the medical field were vast, including the establishment of several institutions such as the Indian Medical Association and the Medical Council of India.

Dr. Roy was instrumental in founding the Indian Institute of Mental Health, the Infectious Disease Hospital, and the Kolkata Medical College. His vision and leadership helped shape modern medical education and healthcare infrastructure in India.

Beyond his medical achievements, Dr. Roy was also a prominent political figure. He served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1948 until his death in 1962. His tenure was marked by significant social and economic reforms. He played a crucial role in the development of infrastructure, industrialization, and the establishment of educational institutions.

 Dr. Roy’s commitment to public service extended to various sectors, including housing, where he initiated the development of Bidhannagar, a suburban locality in Kolkata named in his honor. His holistic approach to governance and his emphasis on healthcare and education left a lasting legacy.

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy’s contributions were widely recognized, and he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1961. His life and work continue to inspire generations of doctors and public servants.

Honouring Doctors Today

On National Doctor's Day, while we remember the monumental contributions of Dr. B.C. Roy, it is also a day to celebrate all doctors who follow in his footsteps. Whether they work in bustling urban hospitals or remote rural clinics, their dedication to healing and caring for patients embodies the spirit of Dr. Roy’s legacy.

 Here are a few ways through we show our honor to the  doctors on this special day:

Express Gratitude: A simple thank you note or message can mean a lot to a doctor. Acknowledge their hard work and sacrifices.

Support Healthcare Initiatives: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations that support healthcare initiatives, particularly those that provide care to underserved communities.

Promote Health Awareness: Engage in activities that promote health awareness and preventive care in your community.

Educate and Advocate: Support policies and initiatives that aim to improve working conditions for healthcare professionals and enhance the healthcare system.

National Doctor's Day is a poignant reminder of the critical role that doctors play in our lives and the incredible legacy of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. As we celebrate this day, let us honor the past by recognizing the contributions of Dr. Roy and appreciate the present by expressing our gratitude to the doctors who continue to work tirelessly for the health and well-being of society. By doing so, we not only pay tribute to the medical profession but also encourage a future where healthcare is accessible, effective, and compassionate for all.

GOPSAI AVINANDAN SANGHA

Editor