In India, National Doctors’ Day was first observed on 01 July 1991 in the honour of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, to pay tribute to his contributions in health domain. July 01 happens to be his death and birth anniversary that coincides on the same date.
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (01 July 1882 – 01 July 1962) was a renowned physician, an educationist, a freedom fighter, a social worker and a politician. He also served West Bengal for 14 years as a chief minister (1948 – 1962). He was awarded with the highest Indian civilian award, THE BHARAT RATNA on 04 February 1961.
He contributed his life for the people, treated many and inspired millions. Furthermore, he was also the Mahatma Gandhis’ personal physician.
In the year 1976, the B.C. Roy National Award was instituted in his memory to recognice the eminent person working in the areas of medicine, science, public affairs, philosophy, arts and literature.
