The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the first convocation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Patna at Patna, Bihar today (October 19, 2023).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that this is the first convocation ceremony of AIIMS Patna and it is a day of pride for this institution and for its students. She said that doctors who are receiving degrees today are ready to play their significant role in the health and development of the country and its citizens.

The President said that AIIMS is an institute of national importance. It has set many new standards in the field of medicine and research in the country and abroad. AIIMS is an excellent medical institute where the highest quality and advanced treatment is being provided to people from all sections of society.

The President said that the medical profession protects people's health and life. People trust doctors and get treatment done. Therefore, it is the duty of all the medical professionals to maintain the dignity of this noble profession and work with a spirit of service.

The President appreciated AIIMS Patna for securing 27th position in the NIRF Ranking 2023 for the first time. She was happy to note that this institution is producing highly competent doctors. She said that medical professionals are the assets of our country. They have a big responsibility to keep citizens healthy.

The President said that there is a need for a large number of competent doctors and nurses to meet the health needs of the large population of our country. The doctor-patient and nurse-patient ratio is low at the national level and needs to be improved. She noted that in the last few years, many medical colleges and hospitals have been built across the country, due to which people are getting medical facilities in nearby areas. She also noted that MBBS seats have increased by almost 100 percent in the last 7-8 years. She appreciated the private sector and non-government organizations for cooperating in building a healthy and developed country.

The President was happy to note that medical institutions like AIIMS Patna are promoting holistic wellness approach and treating people with alternative medicine like homeopathy, Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani and Siddha. She urged institutions like AIIMS Patna to do more research in the field of mental health and guide other institutions to set up mental health education and treatment systems.