The Union Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, presided over the 42nd Foundation Day of the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) and delivered a keynote address. The program was attended by esteemed guests, including Prof. S.P Singh Bhagel, Minister of State, and Dr. V.K Paul, Member, Health, Niti Aayog. The Union Health Minister congratulated the institute on its initiatives and courses while emphasizing the significant growth in recent years.
Keynote Address and Reflection on Growth
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya commended the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences on its achievements and the introduction of 25 new courses within the past two years. The Minister stated that this growth presents greater opportunities for medical students, enabling India to enhance its healthcare services and produce expert doctors. He emphasized the crucial role of the medical sector in the country’s development and encouraged students to contribute towards shaping India into a developed nation.
Launch of Initiatives
During the Foundation Day event, the Union Health Minister launched nine initiatives aimed at further improving medical education and services. These initiatives include the introduction of 11 new fellowship courses in medicine, a Diploma in Emergency Medicine, an Exam Command Center, a Center for Computer-Based Tests, the release of the Good Clinical Practice Guidelines (2nd Edition), a Joint Accreditation Programme, Accreditation of Stand-Alone Labs and Diagnostic Centers, a Skills and Virtual Training Programme, the launch of a Faculty Title for NBEMS Teachers, and the establishment of an NBEMS Medical Library.
Recognition of Healthcare Experts
Dr. Mandaviya, along with Prof. S.P Singh Bhagel, awarded healthcare experts in various categories. The recipients included those recognized with the Nari Shakti Awards, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Awards of Excellence, the Executive Director Certificate of Appreciation Award, and the President NBEMS Award of Excellence. The Minister of State acknowledged the bravery of healthcare workers, particularly the para-medical staff who faced the crisis up close. He highlighted their significant contribution in enhancing India’s perception as a powerhouse in healthcare.
Importance of Indian Doctors and ABHA Card
Prof. S.P Singh Bhagel emphasized the strength and value of Indian doctors, stating that Indian doctors are serving in every part of the globe. He highlighted the ABHA card as a significant development in India since its independence. The card enables healthcare services to reach remote areas, benefitting marginalized communities. He urged the top-performing students in the audience to share their experiences and motivations with colleges and schools in smaller cities and villages, inspiring them to achieve similar heights.
Transformation in Medical Education
Dr. V.K Paul, in his address, praised the growth and development of medical education and institutions, highlighting the transformative changes witnessed in the past eight years. He cited the increase in postgraduate seats from 4,000 to over 13,000 and the growth in the number of medical colleges from 387 to 704. Dr. Paul mentioned the introduction of the National Medical Commission, NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), and the District Regency Program as significant milestones. He stressed that this is a golden era for medical education and encouraged upcoming doctors to contribute their best.
