Doctors’ unwavering commitment has laid the foundation of a healthier Chhattisgarh: CM Sai

Raipur July 1

Be it the daunting challenge of delivering healthcare to remote tribal regions or the unprecedented crisis posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors in Chhattisgarh have fulfilled their duties with exemplary dedication. Undeterred by risk to their own lives, they have upheld their calling as a sacred duty, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said on National Doctors Day.

Speaking at a special event organised by the Department of Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education at the Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Auditorium, Raipur, the Chief Minister paid tribute to the medical fraternity and honoured the families of 14 doctors who laid down their lives during the pandemic. “This ceremony not only reflects our government’s gratitude but underscores our commitment to scaling new heights in healthcare delivery,” he said.

Acknowledging the immense demands of the medical profession, he added, “We all know that a doctor’s life is far from easy—long hours, relentless pressure, and emotional strain are part of their daily routine. Yet, they never waver in their sense of duty. It is because of their courage and devotion that society remains safe and healthy. I am not here merely to thank you all, but also to assure you that the government will stand by you at every step.”

Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, extending greetings on National Doctors’ Day, observed that the health department is not simply a service provider but the backbone of the state’s life-saving systems. “At a time when most people were trying to stay safe indoors, our doctors were risking everything to care for patients. This indomitable spirit defines who they are,” he said.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening the state’s health infrastructure, the Minister announced that appointment and posting orders had been issued for 109 contract doctors and 563 MBBS bonded doctors. “Our clear policy is that every citizen must have access to quality healthcare, and every doctor must be respected and supported,” he said, calling upon the medical community to continue serving with the same empathy and commitment.

The ceremony, marked by emotional moments, saw the auditorium resonate with gratitude as tributes were offered to the 14 doctors who made the supreme sacrifice during COVID-19.

On this occasion, CM Sai formally distributed appointment orders to the newly recruited doctors. Health Secretary Amit Kataria remarked that the event was more than a symbolic gathering—it was an expression of collective indebtedness to doctors who put public service above all else, even staying away from their own families in the worst days of the pandemic. He informed that posting orders for another 92 MBBS bonded doctors and 157 specialist PG bonded doctors would be issued shortly.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Priyanka Shukla, Commissioner Health Services.

Among those present were MLAs Purandar Mishra, Anuj Sharma, Motilal Sahu, Indra Kumar Sahu, Guru Khushwant Saheb, Raipur Mayor Meenal Chaubey, CGMSC Chairman Deepak Mhaskey, senior health officials, and a large number of medical students and professionals from across the state.