Pics by: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, July 12: The Health Commission of the Diocese of Udupi organised the 2nd Diocesan doctors' meet and Doctors' Day celebration at Ave Maria Hall, Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi, on Sunday. The event brought together doctors, Church leaders, healthcare professionals and government officials to honour the medical fraternity and discuss the role of doctors in strengthening community healthcare.
Chief guest of the event Karnataka minister for health and family welfare U T Khader said, "I am happy to be part of this gathering. The diocesan doctors' meet is a meaningful initiative that will strengthen society through the collective efforts of the medical fraternity. Doctors are blessed with a divine gift to heal, and their service earns the blessings of countless people. Having served as the state's Health Minister 13 years ago, I have witnessed how healthcare has transformed with changing technology and diseases. Even today, policy decisions are guided by the advice of doctors. I urge every doctor to work with utmost care and responsibility. Reports indicate that many deaths occur due to medical negligence rather than disease itself. Let us ensure that such incidents are prevented and continue working towards building a healthier society."
Guest of honour Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor of MAHE, Manipal, said, "Doctors' Day is celebrated in honour of Dr B C Roy, whose life symbolised service to society. Manipal has always been known for healthcare and education, reflecting the vision of our founder Dr T M A Pai, who believed that education, poverty alleviation and healthcare, especially in rural areas, are the pillars of national development. Through quality education, advanced healthcare and technology, MAHE continues to fulfil that vision. Our Arogya Card initiative ensures quality treatment irrespective of caste, religion or economic status and supports daily wage earners by reducing the financial burden of medical care. The strong participation of MAHE doctors and staff here reflects the close partnership between the Diocese Health Commission and MAHE."
Delivering a special address, Dr Jacintha D'Souza, joint director (Retd), health and family welfare services, Government of Karnataka, said, "I am honoured to be recognised on Doctors' Day. During my 35 years of service in various departments, I realised that a doctor's role extends far beyond treating patients within hospital walls. Doctors must actively engage with the public by promoting health awareness, disease prevention, palliative care and first aid. While communicable diseases once dominated, non-communicable illnesses such as diabetes and lifestyle-related diseases have become major concerns today. Doctors should not only cure illness but also prevent new health problems arising from environmental and lifestyle factors. I always remember the message displayed outside an operation theatre: 'Enter with passion and humility. Do not leave only your footwear outside; leave your anger, ego and pride as well.'"
Presiding over the programme, bishop Dr Lobo of the diocese of Udupi said, "Doctors perform God's work by protecting, preserving and promoting life. Society places immense trust in doctors, believing that they will heal them with compassion and dedication. While doctors themselves are not free from illness, they continue serving humanity until their last breath. Your hands become God's hands in the service of patients. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt wishes to every doctor and thank you for your selfless commitment to humanity."
Several healthcare initiatives were inaugurated during the programme. 2027 Arogya Card was released by Dr H S Ballal. A Dental Unit and a Diabetic Screening Centre were launched at Goretti Hospital by Dr Jacintha D’Souza. A neuropathy screening device was handed over by Dr H S Ballal to Dr Nagaratna Shastri and Sr Zarina of Goretti Hospital to strengthen diabetic care services. An ECG machine was also presented to Immaculate Hospital, Coimbatore, by Dr Padmanabha Kamath under the Cardiology at Doorstep (CAD) Foundation initiative.
The programme also honoured deanery directors, convenors, resource persons and sponsors for their dedicated contribution to the health ministry of the Diocese of Udupi.
The programme was attended by Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza, bishop of Udupi; Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, emeritus bishop of Udupi; U T Khader, minister for health & family welfare, Govt of Karnataka; H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE, Manipal; Fr Stephen D’Souza, chancellor & coordinator of Pastoral Commissions; Dr Jacintha D’Souza, joint director (Retd), health & family welfare services, Govt of Karnataka; Hilda Cornelio, director, Health Commission; various congress leaders including chairman of the KPCC Campaign Committee, Vinay Kumar Sorake; Block Congress Committee president Ramesh kanchan’ Karnataka State coastal development Authority president MA Gafoor; President of the Udupi District Congress Committee, Ashok Kumar Kodavoor; chairman of the Udupi Urban Development Authority, Dinakar Heroor and others were present.
Hilda Cornelio, director, Health Commission welcomed the gathering, prayer was led by the choir team of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi. Dr Ren Trevor Dias, secretary, Health Commission, Udupi Diocese proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Sony D’Costa, member, Health Commission, Udupi diocese compered the programme.