National Doctors’ Day: History and significance

National Doctors‘ Day is celebrated in India on July 1 every year to commemorate the birth and death anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. He was a physician and the second chief minister of West Bengal. The day is celebrated to express gratitude to doctors who selflessly serve the interest of humans in the time of their illness.

The day holds extra significance this year as Indian doctors and paramedical staff has been serving the countrymen for almost 2-years now due to COVID-19 infection. This day reminds us of the importance and sacrifices made by the doctors. Unfortunately, in several instances, cases of violence were also reported from across the country against the doctors. 

Also Read: 776 doctors died during second COVID wave in India, highest in Bihar: IMA

This year, this day will be celebrated to raise awareness and sensitivity towards doctors and other medical staff, who are on the frontline in India’s fighting against the coronavirus.

In his monthly radio programme ‘Mann ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Dr BC Roy. Speaking about doctors, PM Modi said, “On July 1, we will celebrate National Doctors’ Day. We must pay tribute to our doctors who ensured that India did not succumb to the challenges posed by COVID-19.”

History and significance

National Doctor’s Day was first observed in 1991 in honour of the former Bengal’s Chief Minister Dr BC Roy to recognise his contribution to the service of mankind. Dr Roy was a prominent doctor who made an enormous contribution to the medical field. 

Dr Roy also conferred with Bharat Ratna in1961. His role and contribution in the establishment of the country’s most prestigious hospitals like Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital, Victoria Institution (college), Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital and the Chittaranjan Seva Sadan for women and children are unparallel.