National Doctors’ Day on July 1
Both birth and death occurring on the same date is something unusual. However, there are handful of eminent personalities, whose death occurred on their birthdays. Distinguished physician turned freedom fighter and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy affectionately known as Dr BC Roy is one of those, who died on his 80th birthday.
As a tribute to his contributions to country’s health domain, July 1 was declared as National Doctors’ Day which is being observed since 1991 in India. Born on July 1, 1882 and died on the same date in 1962 at the age of 80. Dr Roy was honoured with the country’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna.
And the day is observed to recognise the invaluable services of doctors towards mankind. Noteworthy to mention that India has made rapid strides in medical field with doctors using innovative technologies in the treatment of patients. This day, undoubtedly, is a perfect tribute to all doctors, who have made relentless efforts in saving precious lives.
Dr BC Roy was a devoted student of medicine, who completed both F.R.C.S. and M.R.C.P. simultaneously. He studied at Calcutta Medical College by winning a scholarship. As a student he lived frugally and spent most of his time in the library reading books. Till his death, he continued to treat patients and discharged his duties as CM of the State as well.
It may be noted that B C Roy National Award was instituted in 1962 in his memory and is being awarded annually since 1976. The award recognizes excellent contributions in the areas of medicine, politics, science, philosophy, literature and arts. The Dr. B.C. Roy Memorial Library and Reading Room for Children in the Children’s Book Trust, New Delhi, was opened in 1967. Today, his private papers have been archived at the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, at Teen Murti House, Delhi.
Quite interestingly, DOCTOR means:
Dawn of relief
Obliging
Caring
Tolerant
Omniscient
Reasonable
Kovai Metro greets doctors on this happy occasion.
