There is an urgent need to strengthen India's national public health system based on Viksit Bharat principles, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (I/C) for the Ministries of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, emphasised during the recently held conclave organised in Delhi by ET Edge in collaboration with Times Now and Mankind Pharma and sponsored by Lupin.

Addressing the audience, Dr. Singh noted, "Doctors, our heroes in white, play an important role in today's rapidly changing world."

“They represent our hopes, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. We now have the opportunity to use the lessons learned from that time to achieve the objective of enhancing the healthcare sector through PM Modi's ambitious Ayushman Bharat Mission. This allows us to continue providing the greatest medical procedures and care to our citizens," he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General Medical Services (Army), Indian Army, Lt. Gen. Arindam Chatterjee, discussed the changing nature of military medicine, stating, "Military medicine encompasses the practice of medicine and medical assistance both in combat and non-combat situations."

“As the nature of combat changes, so does our commitment to delivering medical care across this broad spectrum. During my 40 years of service, I've had an incredible adventure,” he added.

Pointing out that medical procedures are being revolutionised thanks to technological advances, Lt. Gen. Chatterjee observed, “It is necessary to be resilient and prepared for the unexpected. Through my encounters with various warriors and medics, I've learned the value of staying current and responding to change quickly.”

The conclave honoured doctors from many fields, including oncology, orthopaedics, urology, diabetology, and dermatology, for their accomplishments and contributions to healthcare. Notable guests included Air Marshal Rajesh Vidya VSM, Director General Medicine Services (Air), Indian Air Force; Dr. Anupam Sibal, Group Medical Director, Apollo Hospitals; and Dr. B.N. Gangadhar, Chairman (officiating) of the National Medical Commission. They participated in lively panel discussions, which added to the event's value.

The Doctors Day Conclave is a noteworthy event that recognises the hard work and dedication of our nation's doctors. This year's celebration highlighted doctors' crucial contributions to humankind, acknowledging and applauding their tireless efforts to care and heal.