National Doctor’s Day is annually observed across India on 1st July to appreciate and honour the valuable contributions of doctors and healthcare professionals in India. This day also gives an opportunity to thank doctors for their selfless service and efforts for the well-being of the people in India.
- The day also commemorates the birth as well as the death Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (BC Roy), a physician and one of the most influential designers of India’s contemporary healthcare system.
- The national observance of Doctor’s Day across India is led by the Indian Medical Association (IMA).
The theme for National Doctor’s Day 2023 in India is – “Celebrating Resilience and Healing Hands”.
The 2023 theme aims to recognise and appreciate the tireless efforts of our medical professionals during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to be resilient as newer diseases, infections and health issues emerge.
Background:
i. In India, the celebration of National Doctor’s Day was initiated by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) for the first time on 1st July 1991.
ii. Since 1991, the day has been celebrated as a significant occasion to honour and appreciate the invaluable contributions of doctors, promote medical awareness, and encourage the well-being of the medical community.
About Bidhan Chandra Roy (BC Roy):
i. Bidhan Chandra Roy was born on July 1, 1882 in Patna, Bihar.
ii. After completing his medical studies at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, the United Kingdom (UK), he completed both the Member of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) and the Fellow of the Royal College of surgeons (FRCS) degrees in a span of only two years and three months.
iii. He also pioneered the founding of the IMA in 1928 and the Medical Council of India in 1934 and also served as the first President of the Medical Council of India.
iv. He was a personal doctor of Mahatma Gandhi and the first medical consultant in the subcontinent of India.
v. He served as the 2nd Chief Minister of West Bengal (from 1948 to 1962).
vi. In 1961, the Government of India honoured him with the Bharat Ratna in recognition of his immense services to society. He passed away on 1st July 1962.
Events in 2023:
i. On the occasion of National Doctors Day 2023, the IMA has organised a national event in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. Devusinh Chauhan, Minister of State (MoS), Ministry of Communications, graced the event as Chief Guest.
About Indian Medical Association (IMA):
Established in- 1928
National President- Dr. Sharad Kumar Agarwal
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
