President Murmu Praises AIIMS Bhubaneswar at Convocation

Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday graced the fifth convocation ceremony of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, commending the institute’s steady progress over the past 12 years in the fields of patient care, medical research, and public health service.

Addressing graduating students, faculty, and dignitaries, the President expressed pride in AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s evolution into a trusted healthcare hub not only for Odisha but also for neighbouring states like West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. She highlighted that the institute has consistently upheld high standards in both medical service and infrastructure.

Notably, AIIMS Bhubaneswar was recently honoured by the World Health Organization with the Asia Safe Surgical Implant Consortium QIP Award for excellence in surgical instrument and implant reprocessing. The institute has also received the National Kayakalp Award for five consecutive years in recognition of its exceptional sanitation and hospital services.

Praising the broader AIIMS network across India, the President said it has played a transformative role in delivering affordable, advanced medical care, and is positioning India as a potential global healthcare destination.

President Murmu underlined the critical role of medical research in combating diseases. She lauded the efforts of the medical community and government in significantly reducing the prevalence of diseases like smallpox, leprosy, polio, and tuberculosis.

She also turned attention to mental health, cautioning against the rising cases of depression. She advocated for awareness, lifestyle changes, and the inclusion of yoga and pranayama in daily routines as tools for maintaining mental well-being.

On the subject of lifestyle diseases, the President pointed to obesity as a growing concern and advised the adoption of disciplined routines, healthy diets, and regular exercise. She urged doctors to lead public awareness campaigns on these issues.

Importantly, the President called on medical researchers to concentrate on region-specific health issues, especially Japanese Encephalitis and Sickle Cell Anemia, which are prevalent in tribal areas. She appreciated ongoing government efforts and encouraged deeper research for targeted treatments.

The convocation ceremony celebrated the academic achievements of graduating students and reinforced AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s mission to serve as a center of excellence in Indian healthcare.