Rishikesh: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday addressed the sixth convocation ceremony of All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh, calling on graduating students to serve society with empathy, integrity and a strong commitment to nation-building.
Describing the convocation as a “defining moment of transition, reflection and responsibility,” he said it marked not only the culmination of years of effort but also the beginning of a greater duty towards society. The V-P urged the graduates to embrace their professional responsibilities with dedication and purpose.
Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of Rishikesh, the Vice-President said its identity as a global centre of reflection and healing added deeper meaning to the occasion.
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, C. P. Radhakrishnan said India demonstrated resilience and innovation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that over 140 crore citizens received free vaccines, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and said Indian scientists developed vaccines “for the welfare of humanity”.
Radhakrishnan also highlighted India’s global outreach through the Vaccine Maitri initiative, under which vaccines were supplied to over 100 countries, reflecting the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
Underscoring the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, the Vice-President said the establishment of new AIIMS institutions across the country over the past decade has improved access to quality healthcare and medical education, particularly in underserved regions.
Praising AIIMS Rishikesh, he said the institute represents a model of excellence by combining clinical care, academic strength, research and social commitment. He emphasised that healthcare must extend beyond hospitals, lauding telemedicine initiatives that help reach remote populations.
The V-P also lauded innovative interventions such as helicopter emergency medical services and the use of drones for delivering medicines during the Char Dham Yatra, calling them effective solutions to longstanding challenges in healthcare delivery.
Highlighting infrastructure development, he referred to projects such as the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway and praised the Uttarakhand government under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for promoting inclusive growth and strengthening public services.
Emphasising that healthcare is a public trust, the Vice-President urged medical professionals to contribute through preventive care, rural outreach, research and innovation, guided by values of empathy, integrity and service.
Among those present were Uttarakhand Governor Gurmit Singh, Union Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel, and senior officials of AIIMS Rishikesh, along with faculty members, students and other dignitaries.
(DD News)