President Droupadi Murmu attends the first convocation of Gorakhpur AIIMS

Gorakhpur : President Droupadi Murmu, while addressing the first convocation ceremony of AIIMS Gorakhpur on Monday, emphasized the profound impact a doctor’s behavior has on a patient’s physical and mental well-being. She reminded the graduating students that choosing medicine as a profession stems from a spirit of service nurtured in both their hearts and homes.

“A sensitive doctor contributes significantly to the healing process—not just through medicine, but through empathy and conduct. Patience and dedication in the medical profession not only uplift patients but also inspire society,” she said. “Medicine is not merely a profession; it is a sacred service.”

Expressing her happiness at attending the convocation, the President conferred degrees and medals on the students. She narrated the selfless demands of the medical field: “There will be nights when you’re exhausted, yet a call may come requiring immediate action. You might not even get to finish a meal before duty calls again. This is what emergency service looks like. That’s why doctors are still seen as gods. We may not have seen God, but we revere the one to whose feet we entrust our loved ones, pleading, ‘Doctor Sahab, please save them.’ You must save lives without considering a patient’s ability to pay—because this is true humanity.”

President Droupadi Murmu described the occasion as more than a convocation—calling it a moment to reaffirm one’s commitment to education, selfless service, and unwavering integrity. “The name AIIMS evokes the image of world-class healthcare, modern techniques, and dedicated professionals. AIIMS is a symbol of India’s medical excellence and a beacon of hope for every patient.”

She commended the AIIMS network for setting benchmarks in education, research, and treatment. From pioneering surgical techniques and diagnostic tools to integrating AYUSH with allopathic medicine, innovation has become a defining feature of AIIMS institutions. At AIIMS Gorakhpur, she noted, the institution is proudly upholding this legacy, having made impressive strides in a short span by delivering quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare services.

President Droupadi Murmu underscored the importance of inclusive and equitable healthcare, stating that AIIMS Gorakhpur provides the same high standard of treatment to every individual—regardless of their economic status or whether they come from rural or urban areas. She noted that the institute is rapidly emerging as a hub of quality healthcare not only for eastern Uttar Pradesh but also for adjoining regions of Bihar and Nepal.

Addressing the young doctors, she remarked that medicine is not merely a profession—it is a powerful instrument of public and national service. “Doctors play a crucial role not only in treating illnesses but also in laying the foundation for a healthy, productive society. A healthy population enhances the nation’s capacity for growth and development,” she said.

The President underlined the importance of extending quality healthcare to remote and rural areas. “Institutes like AIIMS have been established across the country to ensure that excellent medical education and health services reach every corner. These institutions have increased both access to healthcare and opportunities for employment and education in the sector,” she added.

She proudly noted that India has become a preferred destination for medical tourism, attracting patients from around the world due to its combination of affordability and high-quality treatment. “This is a matter of national pride, and institutions like AIIMS have played a key role in this achievement. Transparency, ethical practices, and research-driven treatment have established AIIMS as a globally respected institution. AIIMS Gorakhpur, along with others, will be instrumental in establishing India as a global medical hub.”

The President also highlighted the emotional strength required in the medical profession. “Doctors face numerous challenges, but empathy remains essential. I urge all stakeholders in medical education to cultivate an environment where, alongside clinical skills, future doctors learn about doctor-patient communication, the healing power of empathy, and the importance of trust.”

Reflecting on the personal rewards of being a doctor, she remarked: “After becoming a doctor, you may earn wealth and respect, but nothing compares to the smile on a healed patient’s face. That joy is priceless. Remember—doctors never retire. This service continues for a lifetime. Keep spreading the wealth of good health, and you will earn peace, happiness, and an enduring name. Let compassion and integrity always guide your practice.”

Speaking on the role of technology in modern medicine, the President acknowledged the increasing use of innovations such as telemedicine, AI-assisted diagnostics, robotic surgery, and wearable health tech. She lauded AIIMS for adopting robot-assisted surgeries and AI-based cancer detection, demonstrating India’s commitment to medical advancement. However, she also emphasised the importance of upholding ethical standards, ensuring data privacy, and fostering human connection in AI-driven healthcare.

Addressing the students, she said that their success was not just a result of personal effort, but also the support of their parents and teachers. She urged them to utilise their knowledge to serve underserved sections of society, particularly in rural and tribal areas where quality healthcare remains scarce.

The President also shared a conversation with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding poor children aged 1–15 in the region. “Previously, these children lacked access to food, shelter, sanitation—and were suffering from a disease. Today, that disease has been eradicated. This transformation is inspiring,” she said. Expressing confidence in the graduating doctors, she encouraged them to continue working for the betterment of such communities and bring pride to AIIMS Gorakhpur and the nation through their service.

Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister Anupriya Patel, Gorakhpur MP Ravi Kishan, AIIMS Gorakhpur Chairman Deshdeepak Verma, AIIMS Executive Director Major General Dr. Vibha Dutta etc. were present at the ceremony.