New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said that doctors are the most important component of society as they carry the tremendous burden of providing healthcare to the needy.

"Doctors are the most important component of the society, who have a tremendous burden on them to provide healthcare to the needy," said Mukherjee.

Urging them to focus on providing their services in the rural and far flung areas, he said that there was need to strengthen the medical infrastructure in the country.

Mukherjee on Wednesday inaugurated the centenary celebrations and presided over the convocation of the Lady Hardinge Medical College, which was established in 1916 and is one of the oldest medical colleges in India.

The President said: "Centenary celebration is just not any occasion but an important milestone to reflect about your (passing out as doctors) achievements and challenge. It is an important milestone in the life of students, faculty and the institute."

"This occasion will also give an opportunity to provide solace and relief to the most needy," said Mukherjee.