Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the critical connection between individual health, personal productivity, and societal well-being. Addressing the 64th convocation of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) at AIIMS Jodhpur, he stated, “Health is paramount and should be a priority concern. Good health is not just essential for the individual, but it is crucial for the well-being of society. Productivity is directly linked to health; if one is not healthy, their productivity suffers, and rather than helping others, they may need others’ help.”
Shri Dhankhar expressed concern over the commercialization and ethical dilution in the medical profession, urging healthcare professionals to rise above these challenges. “Medical professionals are guardians of public health. In India, which is home to one-sixth of humanity, your role extends beyond clinical care. You must advocate for good health, become educators, and public health advocates. The commercialization and ethical dilution in healthcare must be addressed. Healthcare is a divine service, not a commercial enterprise. It must be free from exploitation,” he said.
Highlighting the need for a healthy society to achieve a Viksit Bharat by 2047, the Vice President pointed out that India’s economic growth and infrastructure development are remarkable. “India is now one of the world’s top five economies and on the way to becoming the third largest global economy. However, this ambitious goal requires an eightfold increase in our per capita income, which can only be achieved if our population remains healthy,” he explained.
Shri Dhankhar also urged the Indian industry to champion the production of medical equipment domestically, stating, “We must encourage the manufacture of medical equipment within India. Let’s eliminate the myth that imported goods are always superior. I urge the Indian industry, business, and trade to engage in the production of medical equipment, not only for our country but for the world.”
Cautioning against the growing digital lifestyle and its associated risks, the Vice President stressed the importance of preventive wellness education. “The digital lifestyle, while offering benefits, also brings risks, including mental stress, addiction, and depression. It is essential for healthcare professionals to educate families about the dangers of a screen-dominated world. We are witnessing increasing mental health issues among the youth. As a nation poised to become a global hub for investment, it is vital to guide the younger generation away from these harmful trends,” he urged.
The Vice President also referenced ancient Indian wisdom to underscore the importance of health, quoting the famous line from our scriptures, “पहला सुख निरोगी काया”, meaning “the first happiness is a healthy body.” He further cited teachings from the Vedas and Upanishads that promote harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. “Health is not just the absence of illness; it is a holistic state of well-being,” he added.
Additionally, Shri Dhankhar referred to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing moderation in all aspects of life. “Moderation in diet, recreation, and action is key to healthy living,” he stated, quoting a verse from Chapter 6 of the Gita that advises against extremes in food, sleep, and activity, highlighting their negative impact on health.
Dr. Shiv Sarin, President of NAMS, Dr. Punya Salila Srivastava, IAS, Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Dr. Rajesh Sudhir Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, Dr. G. D. Puri, Director of AIIMS Jodhpur, and other distinguished dignitaries were present at the event.
