National Doctor's Day India
National Doctors' Day in India is celebrated on 1 July to honor the selfless contributions of doctors and healthcare professionals to society.
It is also both the birth and the death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, who was a popular physician, freedom fighter and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal.
His exceptional work in the field of medicine and public service earned him the highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna.
History of National Doctors' Day
National Doctors' Day in India was established by the Indian Medical Association officially in 1991 to honor Dr. Roy's tremendous contributions to the medical field and his groundbreaking role in shaping modern Indian healthcare.
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (1882–1962) was a towering figure in India's medical, political, and educational fields.
His remarkable contributions to healthcare, infrastructure, and public service continue to shape modern India.
Honored with the Bharat Ratna in 1961, Dr. Roy played a key role in developing West Bengal, founding cities like Kalyani, Bidhannagar, and Durgapur.
He also established institutions such as the Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital and Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, significantly advancing medical education and healthcare accessibility.
To honor his legacy, India celebrates National Doctors’ Day on July 1, marking both his birth and death anniversary.
The B.C. Roy National Award, instituted in 1962, continues to recognize excellence in medicine, science, and public affairs.
A mentor to many young medical professionals, Dr. Roy championed ethical practices, medical research, and healthcare reforms that laid the foundation for modern medical policies in independent India.
His dedication to public service extended into politics, where he worked tirelessly to rebuild West Bengal post-independence and improve healthcare accessibility for all.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Roy was instrumental in the founding of IIT Kharagpur, reinforcing his impact on education.
His private papers are preserved at the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, and numerous institutions and statues bear his name, ensuring that his legacy endures.
He was responsible for the establishment of several prominent medical institutions, including:
- R.G. Kar Medical College
- Jadavpur T.B. Hospital
- Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital (now Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute)
- Kolkata’s Infectious Disease Hospital
How to celebrate National Doctors' Day India
National Doctors' Day in India is a special occasion to celebrate the dedication and hard work of the healthcare professionals.
Expressing your gratitude is one of the best ways to celebrate this day and often patients, and their families often take advantage of this day to thank doctors through heartfelt messages, small gifts, or flowers as a token of appreciation.
Many medical institutions and hospitals observe the day by organizing different programs including healthcare awareness workshops.
Several organizations also conduct free medical camps and educational sessions to educate and spread awareness about important health problems.
These initiatives not only benefit the public but also highlight the crucial role doctors play in promoting well-being.
To acknowledge outstanding contributions in the medical field, hospitals, and organizations hold felicitation ceremonies.
These events recognize doctors who have made a significant impact on healthcare through their dedication, research, or service to the community.
