National Doctors’ Day is annually observed across India on 1 July to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable services of doctors and healthcare professionals in safeguarding public health and serving society.
- The day commemorates the birth and death anniversary of Bharat Ratna awardee Dr. Bidhan Chandran Roy (BC Roy), a distinguished physician and the second Chief Minister (CM) of West Bengal (WB).
- National Doctors’ Day in India is annually organised by the New Delhi (Delhi) based Indian Medical Association (IMA), the apex voluntary organisation representing practitioners of modern scientific medicine across the country.
Theme:
The theme of National Doctors’ Day 2025 is “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?”, highlighting the psychological and emotional challenges faced by doctors.
Background:
i.National Doctors’ Day in India was officially introduced and celebrated for the first time on 1st July 1991, based on the recommendation of the IMA.
ii.Since 1991, National Doctors’ Day has been observed to acknowledge the vital role of doctors in society, with a special tribute to Dr. B.C. Roy’s legacy, medical excellence, and commitment to public service and healthcare.
About Bidhan Chandra Roy (BC Roy):
i.Born: 1st July 1882, Patna, Bihar.
ii.Educational Achievements:
- Admitted to St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom (UK) in 1909
- Earned Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) (London) and Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) (England, UK) by 1911, securing top position in MRCP
iii.Notable Contributions:
- Played a pivotal role in establishing the IMA in 1928
- Founded the Medical Council of India (MCI) and served as its first President
- Contributed to urban development by founding planned cities like Salt Lake (Bidhannagar), Durgapur, and Kalyani in WB.
- Advocated for advanced medical education and founded institutions, including Calcutta’s first postgraduate medical college (PGMC).
- Built hospitals focused on mental health and infectious diseases.
iv.Key Positions Held:
- Second Chief Minister(CM) of West Bengal(WB) (1948–1962)
- Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta, WB (1942)
- First President of the Medical Council of India (1939–1945)
v.Awards and Recognition: Conferred the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1961 for his exceptional public service and medical contributions.
vi.Died: 1st July 1962.
About Indian Medical Association (IMA):
National President– Dr. Dillip Bhanushali
Secretary-General– Dr. Sarbari Dutta
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Founded – 1928
