India needs socially responsible doctors, says NMC chairman

India needs socially responsible doctors, says NMC chairman

Abhijat Chandrakant Sheth, Chairman, National Medical Commission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, presents a degree certificate to a student at SRIHER on Friday. M. SRINATH

The Hindu Bureau

CHENNAI. 18.04.2026

India’s healthcare system faces both immense challenges and extraordinary opportunities. From bridging rural healthcare gaps to addressing emerging diseases, the nation needs doctors who are not only competent but also compassionate and socially responsible, said Abhijat Chandrakant Sheth, Chairman, National Medical Commission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, here on Friday.

Delivering the address at the 41st convocation of Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER), Dr. Sheth told graduating doctors that they may choose diverse paths, but regardless of what they choose, they must remember that their work contributes to the well-being of society.

“Many of you will serve in settings where resources are limited but the need [for healthcare] is great. In such circumstances, your dedication, empathy, and integrity will matter far more than technology,” he said.

Dr. Sheth reflected on the “three pillars” that must guide every doctor’s career — compassionate patient care, continuous upgradation of skills, and unwavering ethical values.

“Never forget that behind every case sheet is a human being, with a story, a family, and hopes for recovery. Technology will continue to transform healthcare, but empathy will always remain the timeless essence of good medical practice,” he said.

He added that the field of medicine was evolving at an unprecedented pace. “What you learn today may be refined or replaced by new evidence tomorrow. Advances in genomics, artificial intelligence, minimally invasive procedures, and precision medicine are continuously redefining healthcare,” he said.

He urged the graduating doctors to commit themselves to continuous professional development, to attend conferences, engage in research, embrace innovation, and constantly refine their clinical skills.

On the regulatory framework in the country, he said the responsibility for maintaining professional standards rests with the State Medical Councils, where they will register as practitioners. He said the regulations were not mere formalities; they safeguard patients, uphold professional integrity, and ensure uniform standards of care.

SRIHER’s Pro-Chancellor R.V. Sengutuvan and Vice-Chancellor Uma Sekar were present.