The profession of medicine is often regarded as a science of healing, but as President Droupadi Murmu eloquently highlighted, it is also a sacred calling. Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, she offered profound insights into the essence of the medical profession, its responsibilities, and its future in a rapidly evolving world.

President Murmu began her address by emphasizing the unique role of doctors as both caregivers and compassionate healers. The medical field, she said, is not merely a career to earn a livelihood; it is a commitment to reduce human suffering and improve lives. Doctors are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of treating illnesses, relieving pain, and fostering societal well-being.

More than treating ailments, President Murmu encouraged doctors to focus on the emotional well-being of their patients. A doctor, she said, should look beyond symptoms and diagnoses, seeing patients as individuals struggling with fear, hope, and the uncertainty of their conditions. Compassion, empathy, and encouragement are just as critical to recovery as medical expertise.

This call for ethical and humane practice comes at a time when the healthcare sector often feels the pressures of commercialization and increasing patient volumes. President Murmu reminded the audience that the trust and respect society places in doctors must be upheld with integrity and compassion.

Acknowledging the transformative power of technology, President Murmu highlighted its potential to reshape the healthcare landscape. She called for greater collaboration between medical and engineering institutions to harness innovations like Artificial Intelligence (AI), mRNA technology, robotics, and 3D bio printing.

These technologies, she said, are not just futuristic ideas but practical tools that can enhance patient care, streamline diagnosis, and offer solutions to complex medical challenges. For instance:

1.    AI in diagnostics: Machine learning algorithms can analyse medical imaging with remarkable accuracy, aiding early detection of diseases.

2.    mRNA technology: Widely recognized for its role in COVID-19 vaccines, this innovation holds promise for personalized medicine and treatments for genetic disorders.

3.    Robotics: From precision surgeries to rehabilitation, robotics is revolutionizing how medical procedures are performed.

4.    3D bioprinting: The ability to print human tissues and organs is paving the way for groundbreaking advances in transplants and regenerative medicine.


President Murmu urged institutions like Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital to collaborate with Delhi’s engineering and technology institutes to drive research and innovation. By fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, India can position itself as a global leader in medical advancements.

The President also reflected on the government’s commitment to creating a ‘Healthy India,’ an integral part of its vision to make the nation developed by 2047. She underlined the crucial role of skilled and dedicated medical professionals in maximizing the benefits of enhanced healthcare infrastructure.

India has made remarkable strides in expanding healthcare access, improving infrastructure, and introducing innovative health schemes. Yet, challenges remain, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Addressing these gaps requires doctors not only to excel in their fields but also to act as educators, researchers, and entrepreneurs.

Young doctors, President Murmu asserted, are the torchbearers of this vision. Through their commitment to education, research, and innovation, they can elevate India’s global standing in healthcare and ensure that the country’s progress benefits all its citizens.

President Murmu lauded the extraordinary contribution of Safdarjung Hospital in providing accessible and advanced medical care to the nation. Treating approximately 10,000 patients daily, the hospital stands as a testament to the power of public healthcare institutions in addressing the needs of a diverse and populous country like India.

•    She highlighted some of the hospital’s cutting-edge services, including:

•    Robotic renal transplants: Precision surgeries that minimize complications and recovery time.

•    Robotic cardiothoracic surgery: Advanced procedures for heart and lung conditions.

•    Bone marrow transplants: Lifesaving treatments for blood disorders and cancers.


These services, offered at affordable costs, underscore the hospital’s commitment to bridging the gap between advanced medical care and affordability. Safdarjung Hospital serves as a model for other public healthcare institutions aiming to provide high-quality care to all segments of society.

Beyond technical expertise, President Murmu reiterated the importance of ethics in medicine. In a world increasingly driven by technology and data, the human element remains irreplaceable. Doctors must uphold the values of honesty, transparency, and compassion in every aspect of their practice.

She urged young medical professionals to engage with their patients as individuals, offering not just medical solutions but also hope and reassurance. This empathetic approach can build trust, enhance patient satisfaction, and ultimately lead to better health outcomes.

While celebrating the achievements of India’s healthcare sector, President Murmu also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead. These include:

•    Workforce shortages: Addressing the uneven distribution of doctors and specialists, especially in rural areas.

•    Health inequities: Ensuring that advancements in healthcare reach marginalized and underserved populations.

•    Global health threats: Preparing for pandemics, climate change-related health issues, and antibiotic resistance.


At the same time, she highlighted the opportunities that arise from these challenges. By leveraging technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and prioritizing patient-centric care, India can overcome these hurdles and emerge as a global healthcare leader.

President Murmu’s address was not just a celebration of the accomplishments of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital but also a call to action for the next generation of doctors. She encouraged them to:

1.    Embrace lifelong learning: Medicine is a constantly evolving field, and staying updated is essential.

2.    Innovate boldly: Use technology and research to develop new solutions to healthcare challenges.

3.    Serve selflessly: Uphold the highest ethical standards and prioritize patient welfare above all else.

By embodying these principles, young doctors can not only excel in their careers but also contribute meaningfully to society.

President Droupadi Murmu’s speech at the convocation ceremony was a stirring reminder of the profound responsibilities and opportunities that come with being a doctor. The medical profession, she said, is more than just a science, it is an art, a calling, and a duty to humanity.

As India marches toward its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the role of doctors will be pivotal. Through their expertise, compassion, and commitment to innovation, they can help build a healthier, more equitable society.

The address also highlighted the transformative potential of technology, the importance of ethical practice, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. For young doctors stepping into the world of medicine, it was an inspiring call to rise to the challenges of their profession and make a lasting impact on the lives they touch.

In a country as diverse and dynamic as India, the journey of a doctor is both challenging and rewarding. As President Murmu so eloquently put it, being a doctor is not just about treating diseases, it is about healing lives, instilling hope, and contributing to the well-being of society. And in that noble endeavour, the future of Indian healthcare shines bright