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Patna, Feb 26 – President Droupadi Murmu, while addressing a centenary celebration event of Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of further developing Bihar’s medical infrastructure. She acknowledged the Bihar government’s efforts in healthcare development but stressed that more needs to be done.
The President highlighted the necessity of establishing inclusive healthcare facilities in the state and called for PMCH to collaborate with leading hospitals across the country for the treatment and research of critical diseases such as cancer. She cited Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Indore as examples of cities that have successfully developed specialty medical centres.
“This would not only provide quality medical treatment to the people of Bihar but also boost the state’s economy. The PMCH and its alumni can greatly contribute to this endeavor with their experience,” President Murmu stated.
Historical Significance of PMCH
PMCH, originally established as Temple Medical School in 1874, later evolved into Prince of Wales Medical College before being renamed PMCH. The institution, inaugurated on February 25, 1925, has played a pivotal role in medical education and healthcare services.
“The PMCH was among the best hospitals in Asia. The alumni of this institute have brought glory to themselves and PMCH in the country and abroad on the strength of their talent, service, and dedication,” she said.
The President also pointed out the challenges patients face when seeking treatment outside Bihar, including delays, accommodation issues, and employment disruptions. She underscored the importance of decentralizing quality medical institutions to alleviate pressure on healthcare facilities in major cities.
Emphasizing Technology in Healthcare
President Murmu acknowledged the growing role of technology in medicine, stating that artificial intelligence and robotics are simplifying and enhancing medical procedures. She urged stakeholders at PMCH to embrace the latest technological advancements to improve healthcare outcomes.
Additionally, she encouraged doctors to take on roles as researchers, therapists, teachers, and counselors, contributing to both healthcare and nation-building. She also emphasized the importance of raising awareness about blood and organ donation.
Bihar’s Progress in Healthcare
Union Health Minister J P Nadda, who was also present at the event, praised PMCH’s contributions to healthcare over the past century. He remarked that Bihar has transitioned from being among the lowest-ranked states in healthcare to one of the leading ones due to the efforts of the NDA government.
Nadda highlighted the central government’s commitment to Bihar’s healthcare development, noting that Bihar, apart from Jammu and Kashmir, is the only state to have been allocated two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), one in Patna and another under construction in Darbhanga.
“Our government has taken up the initiative to convert eight district hospitals into medical colleges in Bihar. There is no place in the world where doctors from PMCH have not made their mark. Specialists from this institution are serving humanity across the state, the country, and the globe,” Nadda added.
Welcoming the President
President Murmu arrived in Bihar on a two-day visit, where she was received at the airport by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Both dignitaries were present at the centenary celebrations of PMCH.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the statements made by dignitaries during the centenary celebrations of PMCH. The information presented reflects their views and announcements regarding Bihar’s healthcare infrastructure and development.
