Chief Minister Dhami Hails Doctors as the ‘Guardians of Health of Devbhoomi’, Honors Their Selfless Service on National Doctors’ Day
Uttarakhand Government Fully Committed to Strengthening Healthcare Services: CM Dhami
Over 1.2 Million Patients Receive Free Treatment Worth More Than ₹2,300 Crore Under Ayushman Bharat
Telemedicine and Heli-Ambulance Services Strengthening Healthcare Access in Remote Areas
Safety, Dignity and Welfare of Doctors Are the State Government’s Highest Priority: Chief Minister
Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described doctors as the true “Guardians of Health of Devbhoomi”, stating that they are not merely medical professionals treating diseases but compassionate caregivers who instill hope, confidence and a new lease of life in society. He said that despite the challenging geographical conditions of Uttarakhand, doctors continue to serve the people with exceptional dedication, making them the backbone of the state’s healthcare system.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing the National Doctors’ Day celebration organized by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dehradun Branch, at a hotel on Chakrata Road in Dehradun. As the chief guest, he extended his greetings to doctors, nursing officers, paramedical staff and all healthcare professionals and felicitated distinguished doctors for their outstanding contribution to medical services.
Tribute to Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy
Paying tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy on his birth and death anniversary, the Chief Minister said that his life remains a timeless inspiration of dedication to healthcare, humanitarian service and nation-building. He added that today’s medical fraternity continues to uphold those ideals through their commitment to patient care and public welfare.
Doctors Hold a Revered Place in Indian Culture
Chief Minister Dhami said that Indian culture regards doctors as lifesavers who serve humanity with compassion and selfless dedication. He noted that whenever people face illness or medical emergencies, doctors become the strongest source of hope and reassurance.
He praised doctors serving in Uttarakhand’s difficult mountainous terrain, stating that despite limited resources and challenging conditions, they continue to provide quality healthcare, making a significant contribution to strengthening the state’s healthcare system.
Remembering the Sacrifices of Healthcare Workers During COVID-19
Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chief Minister said that doctors, nurses, paramedics and all frontline healthcare workers demonstrated extraordinary courage by placing their duty above personal safety. Many medical professionals even sacrificed their lives while saving others, and their dedication will always remain an inspiration for society.
Ayushman Bharat Transforming Healthcare in Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Dhami said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s healthcare sector has witnessed unprecedented expansion and transformation.
He informed that under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, more than 6.2 million Ayushman cards have been issued in Uttarakhand, enabling over 1.2 million patients to receive cashless treatment worth more than ₹2,300 crore, providing significant financial relief to economically weaker families.
Strengthening Medical Infrastructure Across the State
The Chief Minister said that the state government is consistently investing in strengthening healthcare infrastructure. Currently, five medical colleges are operational in Uttarakhand, while two additional medical colleges are under construction. Simultaneously, nursing education and training institutions are also being expanded to develop a stronger healthcare workforce.
He further stated that super-specialty medical services are being enhanced at the medical colleges in Dehradun, Haldwani and Srinagar. A state-of-the-art Cancer Institute is under construction in Haldwani, while the AIIMS Satellite Centre at Kichha is in its final phase of development. District hospitals and Community Health Centres are also being upgraded with modern medical equipment and improved facilities.
Better Healthcare Access in Remote Areas
The Chief Minister highlighted that the government has significantly expanded telemedicine services to ensure specialist consultations reach people living in remote and mountainous regions.
He added that heli-ambulance services have emerged as a lifesaving initiative, enabling critically ill patients from inaccessible areas to receive timely medical treatment.
Government Committed to Doctors’ Safety and Welfare
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized that the state government is giving special attention to the recruitment of doctors, nursing officers and healthcare personnel while ensuring a safe, respectful and conducive working environment.
He made it clear that any form of violence, intimidation or misconduct against doctors would not be tolerated, reiterating that the safety, dignity and welfare of medical professionals remain among the government’s highest priorities.
Technology Can Support Healthcare, But Doctors Remain Its Greatest Strength
The Chief Minister observed that emerging technologies such as Digital Health, Artificial Intelligence and Telemedicine are creating new opportunities to improve healthcare delivery. However, he stressed that no technology can replace the compassion, expertise and commitment of doctors.
“For every patient, a doctor represents not only treatment but also trust, empathy and hope,” he said.
Collective Efforts Needed for a Healthier Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Dhami said that the combined efforts of the state government, medical institutions, the Indian Medical Association, healthcare professionals and society can further strengthen Uttarakhand’s healthcare system.
He particularly appreciated doctors serving in remote and border regions, describing their contribution as invaluable.
Urging doctors to also take care of their own health, he remarked that “Healthy doctors are essential for building a healthy society.”
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the Chief Minister said that every citizen of Uttarakhand should have access to quality, affordable and modern healthcare services. He expressed confidence that through collective efforts, the state would build a healthy, empowered and self-reliant Uttarakhand.
The programme was attended by MLA Savita Kapoor, office bearers of the Indian Medical Association, senior doctors, medical experts, officials from the Health Department and several distinguished guests.
