Indian Medical Association (IMA) observed the National Doctors’ Day on July 1 every year.
Key Points
- This day is observed to honour birth and death anniversary Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy who was a great physician and second chief minister of West Bengal.
- He was born on July 1, 1882 and died at the age of 80 on same date (July 1) in 1962.
- This day shows gratitude to doctors who have selflessly aided people in time of need and tirelessly worked for health of their patients.
- This year, India paid tribute to those doctors who ensured that India did not succumb to challenges that Covid-19 brought.
About Doctor’s Day
Doctor’s Day is not only celebrated in India but across different countries. However, the date varies. In United States Doctor’s Day is celebrated on March 30 while in Cuba it is observed on December 3. Iran celebrates it on August 23.
Background
Doctor’s Day was observed for the first time in March 1933 in Georgia, United States. Day was celebrated by sending card to physicians and placing flowers on graves of doctors who have passed away.
First Doctor’s Day in India
First National Doctors’ Day in India was celebrated in 1991 to honour Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy who was instrumental in establishing institutions such as Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan etc. He was awarded with Bharat Ratna on February 4, 1961.
Covid-19 pandemic & doctors
As per Indian Medical Association, about 798 doctors have lost their lives in second wave of coronavirus. Maximum of 128 doctors lost their lives in Delhi, and is followed by 115 in Bihar. On the occasion, IMA announced for the formation of IMA Benevolent Fund. This fund will be devoted to its member doctors who have died while serving on Covid-19 duty. During the first wave, about 748 doctors died.