President Murmu Addresses AIIMS Rajkot’s First Convocation; Calls for Skilled, Compassionate Doctors

Emphasises role of technology, governance, and human values in advancing equitable healthcare

Rajkot: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday addressed the first convocation ceremony of All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rajkot, underscoring the critical role of skilled and socially conscious doctors in driving transformative change in society.

Highlighting the expanding footprint of AIIMS institutions across the country, the President said they are playing a pivotal role in delivering affordable tertiary healthcare, advancing medical education, and fostering research and innovation. She described their contribution to public health initiatives and policy formulation as integral to strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem.

Referring to AIIMS Rajkot as a young institution, the President said it has a long journey ahead in medical education, research, and service delivery. She urged its leadership to align institutional goals with regional healthcare challenges while embedding strong governance and transparency frameworks from the outset to ensure sustainable growth.

“The medical profession is not merely a profession; it is a commitment to the service of humanity,” she said, adding that beyond scientific expertise, doctors must embody sensitivity, patience, and humility. She noted that the white coat symbolises society’s trust, particularly in moments of vulnerability, placing a profound responsibility on medical professionals.

Addressing graduating students, the President pointed to rapid technological advancements reshaping healthcare, including artificial intelligence, robotics, precision medicine, and digital health services. She encouraged them to embrace these innovations to enhance diagnosis and treatment outcomes, while stressing that empathy remains irreplaceable in patient care.

“A doctor’s reassuring words and the ability to listen can heal in ways that medicine alone cannot,” she said.

Emphasising the broader societal role of the medical community, the President said that doctors guided by integrity, compassion, and a spirit of service can significantly contribute to nation-building.

Linking healthcare to India’s long-term development vision, she noted that citizen well-being is central to achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. While government initiatives are expanding access to quality healthcare, she said their impact will be amplified through coordinated efforts among institutions, policymakers, and practitioners.

She expressed confidence that AIIMS Rajkot will evolve into a centre of excellence, contributing to equitable and accessible healthcare while setting new benchmarks in medical research and innovation.