The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, made significant remarks at the convocation ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, recently, emphasizing the institution's global prestige in healthcare and medical education. AIIMS has established itself as a beacon in pursuing excellence and providing care to patients from diverse backgrounds. President Murmu highlighted that the institution is a culmination of the values embodied by Karma Yoga from the Gita, where dedication transcends socio-economic barriers.
“AIIMS has played a pivotal role in healthcare not only nationally but also globally in its 69 years of existence,” the President noted, praising the institute's commitment to innovative research and patient care. She acknowledged AIIMS's efforts to uphold good governance, which she asserted is crucial for any organization's healthy growth. “Good governance is necessary for the healthy growth of any organization, and AIIMS is no exception,” she observed.
Particularly pertinent, the President addressed the pressing issue of emotional health in today’s society, urging the AIIMS faculty to launch an awareness campaign centered on mental health. “Every loss in life is fixable except the loss of a precious life,” she stated, underscoring the urgency of the mental health crisis. Encouraging the graduating students to build their careers, she inspired them to utilize their education for the betterment of underprivileged communities, emphasizing the importance of serving in regions lacking medical professionals.
In another significant announcement, the Rashtrapati Ashiana, a presidential retreat located in Dehradun, will soon be opened to the public as a tourist attraction. This initiative aims to boost local employment, particularly among transport operators in the region. “Opening of the park for people will directly benefit the taxi, auto, bus, and e-rickshaw operators of Uttarakhand,” stated Sundar Panwar, President of the Uttarakhand Taxi Maxi Federation, highlighting the direct economic advantages this increased tourist footfall would bring.
On June 20, 2025, President Murmu will lay the foundation stone for a modern park named 'Upvan Vatika', which will be developed on 132 acres at the Rashtrapati Ashiana complex. Designed to resemble London's Hyde Park, this park will serve as an additional attraction for tourists visiting Dehradun. District authorities are soliciting input from the public on the park's development, encouraging the community to share their ideas before the deadline on April 6, 2025.
“For this, talks are being held with hotel, restaurant owners, e-rickshaw organizations, and other stakeholders,” shared District Magistrate Savin Bansal, ensuring that the park's development aligns with local expectations and needs. With the addition of this facility, Dehradun is set to elevate its status as a tourist destination, naturally benefiting local businesses.
As both the AIIMS and the Rashtrapati Ashiana evolve, they underline the vision of a more engaged and responsive governance under President Murmu. This approach not only preserves the rich heritage of these institutions but also ensures they contribute significantly to the welfare and progress of society. The emphasis on healthcare, mental health awareness, and community engagement expresses a proactive strategy that benefits all stakeholders.
The developments at AIIMS and the impending opening of Rashtrapati Ashiana reflect a commitment to forging a brighter future for all. By advocating for excellent healthcare, mental health awareness, and local economic growth through tourism, President Murmu's administration sets a precedent of responsiveness and responsibility, aiming to touch lives meaningfully across the board.
