Even if it is for one or two years, I hope you go to such places and serve the people there,” President Droupadi Murmu said while addressing the first convocation of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bilaspur, on Tuesday. Sometimes doctors are reluctant to go to far-flung and remote areas to treat patients, but I hope that you never refuse to serve in such locations.
At the start of her address, the President paid obeisance to Mata Shri Naina Devi, the deity of the ‘shakti peeth’ in Bilaspur. She acknowledged Bilaspur’s sacred soil and its historical significance. Financial progress stays behind, but service to others remains with you. On the occasion, the President felicitated five gold medalists and distributed degrees to other graduates. Congratulating them, she noted that they should feel immense pride as the first graduating class of AIIMS Bilaspur. She reminded the students that as the first batch to receive degrees from the institution, they bear a unique responsibility to set a positive example for future generations. That is why your hard work and commitment will be followed by those who come after you. This is indeed a proud moment for you. But this comes with a responsibility. You have to lay the foundation of the identity and legacy of this institution. In future, it is with your hard work and dedication that this institution will be known. She reminded them that their fundamental duty was not merely to diagnose and treat illnesses but also to demonstrate profound sensitivity and compassion towards patients. Delivering quality healthcare services on time to populations residing in the remote areas of Himachal Pradesh is a multi-faceted challenge.
The President said that AIIMS Bilaspur bears a special responsibility due to its geographical location.
the President said, “If you had wished, you could have chosen another profession to become economically prosperous, but you chose a path of service While addressing the graduates. It is said that selfless service brings rich rewards and inner peace. Describing Bilaspur as the “land of valiant soldiers”, Murmu said she was happy to be present at the institute’s first convocation. “It is said that a first impression lasts long. It should be your objective that through your character and work, this institution’s name becomes known,” she said. “When a patient receives empathy and a sense of personal connection with the doctor, half the battle against the ailment is won,” the President said.
