India’s medical expertise gains global recognition: Ex- ICMR chief

Former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR),  Prof. Balaram Bhargava, emphasised India’s rising influence in global healthcare, attributing it to the expertise and dedication of the country’s medical professionals. Addressing the graduation ceremony of 305 students from the MBBS, BDS, and MDS programmes at GITAM Deemed to be University’s Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (GIMSR) and GITAM Dental College, he highlighted India’s growing prominence as a hub for medical tourism, citing the country’s ability to provide affordable yet superior medical care.
Prof. Bhargava underscored the significance of the doctor-patient connection, asserting that personal interaction is vital for building trust, comfort, and a sense of security, all of which contribute significantly to patient recovery.
While acknowledging the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medicine, he cautioned that it cannot substitute the crucial human elements of effective communication, empathy, and compassion that physicians provide. He advised the new medical practitioners to commit to lifelong learning, refining both their technical abilities and interpersonal skills to stay abreast of the dynamic healthcare landscape.
M Sribharath, President of GITAM and Member of Parliament for Visakhapatnam, also addressed the graduating class, emphasizing the constantly evolving nature of the healthcare sector.
He challenged the graduates to prioritize serving underserved rural populations and reaffirmed GITAM’s dedication to merging contemporary medical education with pioneering research.
The graduation ceremony was attended by key figures including Prof. Errol D’Souza, Vice-Chancellor of GITAM; Prof. Gitanjali Batmanabane, Pro Vice-Chancellor of GIMSR; Dr. S.P. Rao, Dean; and Dr. V.V. Narasimha Rao, Principal of GITAM Dental College & Hospital, alongside other distinguished guests.