VP Calls on AIIMS Rishikesh Graduates to Lead with Compassion, Innovation and National Service

Vice President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan has called on graduating medical professionals to embrace their roles with a deep sense of responsibility, compassion, and commitment to nation-building, as he addressed the 6th Convocation Ceremony of AIIMS Rishikesh in Uttarakhand.

Describing the occasion as a "defining moment of transition, reflection, and responsibility," the Vice President urged students to view their graduation not merely as an academic milestone, but as the beginning of a lifelong commitment to public service and healthcare excellence.

A Sacred Setting for a Noble Profession

Highlighting the unique setting of Rishikesh—a globally recognised centre for spirituality, healing, and reflection—the Vice President said the location adds profound meaning to the convocation ceremony.

Situated at the gateway to the Himalayas, Rishikesh symbolises both introspection and service, values that align closely with the medical profession's core ethos.

From Achievement to Responsibility

Addressing the graduates, Shri Radhakrishnan emphasised that a convocation represents not just the culmination of years of rigorous training, discipline, and sacrifice, but also the beginning of a greater responsibility toward society.

He encouraged young doctors to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, guided by purpose, empathy, and dedication.

India's Pandemic Response: A Model of Resilience

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vice President praised India's response as a testament to resilience, innovation, and collective effort.

He highlighted the country's historic vaccination drive, under which over 140 crore vaccine doses were administered free of cost, ensuring equitable access across urban and rural populations.

He also underscored the role of Indian scientists, noting that vaccines were developed not for commercial gain but for the welfare of humanity, reinforcing India's commitment to global health.

Global Solidarity Through Vaccine Maitri

The Vice President pointed to the Vaccine Maitri initiative, through which India supplied vaccines to over 100 countries, as a powerful example of the country's global responsibility.

He said the initiative embodied the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family—and positioned India as a compassionate and reliable global partner in times of crisis.

Expanding Healthcare Access Through AIIMS Network

Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted the rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure in India, particularly the establishment of new AIIMS institutions over the past decade. These institutions, he said, have significantly improved access to quality healthcare and medical education, especially in underserved regions.

He noted that good governance is rooted in understanding and addressing the needs of the people, with healthcare being a central pillar of that responsibility.

AIIMS Rishikesh as a Model of Excellence

Commending AIIMS Rishikesh, the Vice President described it as a model institution that integrates:

• Advanced clinical care

• Academic excellence

• Cutting-edge research and innovation

• Strong social commitment

He particularly praised the institute's telemedicine initiatives, which extend healthcare services beyond hospital walls to reach remote and underserved communities.

Innovation Transforming Healthcare Delivery

The Vice President also lauded innovative healthcare solutions being implemented in the region, including:

• Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS)

• Drone-based delivery of medicines, especially during the Char Dham Yatra and in remote terrains

These initiatives, he said, demonstrate how technology can bridge long-standing gaps in healthcare accessibility.

Infrastructure Boost Enhancing Regional Development

Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted the rapid infrastructure development in Uttarakhand, including projects like the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, which are improving connectivity and access to essential services.

He also commended the state government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, for its efforts in promoting inclusive development, strengthening healthcare systems, and enhancing infrastructure.

A Call to Serve with Integrity and Compassion

In his concluding remarks, the Vice President reminded graduates that healthcare is not just a profession but a public trust, and that medical practitioners play a critical role in shaping the nation's future.

He urged them to contribute actively through:

• Preventive healthcare and awareness

• Rural outreach programmes

• Research and innovation

• Ethical and patient-centric care

Above all, he called on them to remain guided by the enduring values of empathy, integrity, and service.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd.), Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister of State for Health Smt. Anupriya Patel, and senior officials and faculty from AIIMS Rishikesh.

As the new batch of medical graduates steps into the professional world, the Vice President's message underscores a broader vision—one where healthcare professionals are not only healers but also agents of change in building a healthier, more inclusive India.