Every year, National Doctor’s Day is celebrated to recognize the priceless contributions that doctors make to people’s lives and communities. National Doctor’s Day is not just a celebration; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to providing holistic and sustainable healthcare. As we navigate the complexities of modern healthcare, doctors remain the bedrock of our health systems. Their dedication, hard work and commitment to preserving the health and welfare of the nation are truly commendable.
Theme of the National Doctors Day 2025
“The theme for National Doctors’ Day 2025 is “Behind the Mask: Caring for Caregivers”. This theme highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing the well-being of doctors, acknowledging that they often prioritize patient care while neglecting their own health. It emphasizes the need to support doctors’ mental and physical health and to ensure they have the resources and support they need.
History
The Government of India instituted National Doctor’s Day in 1991 as a way to commemorate the outstanding accomplishments made by Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy to the medical field and public service. By establishing organisations like the Indian Medical Association and the Medical Council of India, Dr. Roy played a significant role in developing India’s healthcare system. In addition to raising the nation’s medical standards, his work motivated future generations of medical professionals to strive for greatness and service.
Significance
Every year since 1991, the country celebrates 1 July as National Doctors Day. This day is observed to acknowledge the contribution of doctors to humanity and society and to express gratitude for their service to the country and mankind.
Background to the National Doctor Day
The Indian Medical Association proposed to the government of India that 1 July be observed as National Doctors’ Day in the country in honour of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy (Dr B.C. Roy). The government accepted the proposal and declared 1 July National Doctors Day.
The first National Doctors Day was observed on 1 July 1991.
The 1st of July was chosen as the National Doctors Day in memory of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy.
Dr B.C. Roy was born on July 1, 1882, in Patna, Bihar, and passed away on July 1, 1962, in Kolkata (earlier Calcutta).
Dr B.C.Roy was the founder member of the Indian Medical Association and the Medical Council of India.
About Dr. BC Roy
Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy was an eminent doctor, educationist, philanthropist and freedom fighter.
He graduated from Patna College, Bihar, with a degree in Mathematics and studied medicine at the Calcutta Medical College.
He then went to England and was enrolled in St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. Upon returning to India, Dr. B.C Roy taught at his alma mater, Calcutta Medical College.
He was instrumental in setting up the Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital, Jadavpur TB Hospital, the Chittaranjan Seva Sadan for women and children, the Victoria Institution, and the Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital. He was Mahatma Gandhi’s personal doctor.
Political Career
He entered politics in 1925 and later became a member of the Congress Working Committee, the mayor of Calcutta.
He became the second Chief Minister of West Bengal in 1948 after Prafulla Chandra Ghosh.
After the promulgation of the constitution, he took oath as the chief minister of West Bengal on 26 January 1950. He remained the chief minister of West Bengal until his death on 1 July 1962.
As a Journalist
Dr B.C.Roy was also a noted journalist. He edited the ‘Atmasakti’ journal started by Chittaranjan Das and also edited “Forward”, “Bangabasi’, and ‘Liberty’ journals.
He was the founding chairman of the United Press of India.
Honour
- Dr B.C Roy was honoured with India’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, in 1961.
- In 1976, the Medical Council of India instituted the Dr. B.C.Roy National Award in Medicine. It is considered to be the highest award in medicine in India.
Significance:
As mentioned above, it is a day set aside to salute the resilience of our doctors. Whether it’s a virtual salute, a heartfelt thank you card, or a simple moment of silence to acknowledge their tireless efforts, let’s show all the doctors that we cherish them, on this special day. Their dedication makes the world a better place, and on this special day, we celebrate their exceptional brilliance with gratitude and admiration. So, here’s to our medical warriors – Happy National Doctor’s Day!
