National Doctors’ Day: History and significance

National Doctors’ Day is celebrated on July 1 in India. The day is dedicated to Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy for his contribution to medical science and about thanking the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers for their contribution to the service of humanity. 

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Doctor’s Day is organized by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) every year in India and is celebrated on different dates across the globe. The theme for National Doctor’s Day 2022 is “Family Doctors on the Front line”. The theme regards the contribution of the doctors who care for the community and the whole family. 

The day was first celebrated in 1991 to honour Dr B.C Roy, a renowned doctor and also the second Chief Minister of West Bengal. July 1 happens to be the birth and earth anniversary of Dr Roy. The day not only celebrates the great physician but also honours the responsibilities of the health care workers in serving the lives of people all across the country. The day recognises their function and obligations.  

During COVID-19, the doctors worked 24*7 risking their lives to save their patients. The day further recognises the spirit and dedication of doctors as they work tirelessly in the hour of crisis. 

Dr Roy was awarded Bharat Ratna in 1961, for his contributions and efforts in the medical field. He played a significant role in establishing the Indian Medical Association and Indian Institute of Mental Health, the Infectious Disease Hospital and Kolkata’s first Postgraduate medical College, Jadavpur T.B Hospital, Kamla Nehru Memorial Hospital, Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital and the Chittaranjan Seva Sadan for women and children. 

The British Medical Journal described Roy as, “a leader in national and municipal politics and at the same time the first medical consultant in the subcontinent of India, he towered over his contemporaries in several fields.” 

Doctors not only treat people but also help heal, educate and save a person through the disease. The annual event of Doctor’s Day every year spreads awareness about the importance of doctors in our country and society.