Bhubaneswar- In a deeply moving address at the fifth convocation of AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Monday, President Droupadi Murmu described the medical profession as a noble vow rather than a mere occupation. Drawing from her personal memories and cultural values, she reminded young doctors that the path they’ve chosen is one of lifelong dedication, service, and sacrifice.
Reflecting on her rural upbringing, President Murmu shared that in her village, doctors were revered as gods. “Doctorhood is not a 10-to-5 job. It is a lifetime of commitment to healing others. True inner satisfaction lies in selfless service,” she said, urging graduates to uphold the dignity and responsibility of their profession.
Applauding the remarkable growth of AIIMS Bhubaneswar over the past 12 years, she noted the institution’s rising national and international reputation. More than 10 lakh patients have received treatment here, over 17 lakh diagnostic tests have been conducted, and 25,000 surgeries performed in just the last decade. “Today, patients come not only from Odisha and neighboring states but even from outside India for treatment. This speaks volumes about the trust AIIMS Bhubaneswar has earned,” she remarked.
President Murmu was particularly delighted to note that this year, more female students had earned gold medals than their male peers. “Our mothers and sisters are natural caregivers. Their presence in the medical field will make our healthcare system more empathetic and stronger,” she said, calling it an encouraging sign for the future of healthcare in India.
She congratulated the graduating batch for their hard work and dedication, acknowledging the sacrifices made by students and their families. “This is not just your success; it is a collective victory of commitment, learning, and values.”
Highlighting the national significance of AIIMS institutions, the President praised their role in bringing advanced medical care to millions at affordable costs. She cited recognition by the World Health Organization and multiple Kayakalpa Awards for sanitation and hospital services as proof of the institute’s excellence.
President Murmu also used the occasion to touch upon pressing health issues. She emphasized that modern research has reduced the burden of many deadly diseases such as smallpox, polio, leprosy, and tuberculosis, crediting the relentless efforts of doctors, scientists, and healthcare workers.
However, she expressed concern over rising mental health challenges like depression and lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity. “Medication alone is not enough. Awareness, yoga, and balanced living are crucial for mental peace,” she said, urging doctors to promote healthy lifestyles within society.
Calling for locally focused healthcare solutions, she advised the medical community to prioritize research on region-specific diseases like Sickle Cell Anemia and Japanese Encephalitis, especially prevalent in tribal regions. “Doctors must address the needs of their communities. Research that serves the local population is the truest service,” she said.
President Murmu also recalled the day the foundation stone of AIIMS Bhubaneswar was laid. “At that time, there were hardly any structures here. Today, it is a vibrant campus full of life—students learning, patients healing, and knowledge growing.”
Closing her speech, she voiced her confidence that AIIMS and its alumni will help make India a global leader in healthcare. “This convocation is not the end—it is a new beginning in your journey of service to humanity,” she told the graduates, urging them to carry forward the spirit of compassion, courage, and commitment in every life they touch.
