New Delhi: On June 28, Dr Aseem Gupta, 52, who was serving in the frontline of the war against the pandemic at the COVID government facility at LNJP Hospital in New Delhi, died of the novel coronavirus infection, which he had contracted while treating his patients. But it wasn’t just him who had tested positive for COVID-19, his wife, also a doctor suffered the same fate. Dr Nirupama Attreya who survived the battle against the pandemic says, “He was a fighter and a COVID-19 hero. He died fighting COVID-19, and I will remember him for his fighting spirit.”
This is not the story of Dr Aseem Gupta alone, there are many doctors and healthcare workers who on are constantly risking their lives in a bid to save lives of thousands and thousands of people. While we have the privilege to stay at home during these times of crisis, it is doctors who are battling the deadly virus from the frontline. Doctors are truly the greatest heroes and to celebrate the work of such great heroes India marks July 1 as National Doctor’s Day. Here’s all you need to know about the day:
Also Read: 6 Months On, What Do We Know About The Coronavirus Pandemic
National Doctor’s Day 2020: History And Significance
Doctor’s Day was established by the Government of India back in 1991 in honour of the birth and death anniversary of the great physician and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. Since then July 1 in India is marked as National Doctor’s Day to show gratitude to all those who have selflessly helped other people and tirelessly worked to save every life in the country – the doctors.
The day is observed on different dates across the world. In the United States, Doctor’s Day is observed on March 30, in Cuba on December 3 and in Iran on August 23.
National Doctor’s Day Theme 2020
Every year, National Doctor’s Day is marked with a theme. Last year, the theme for the day was ‘Zero tolerance to violence against doctors and clinical establishments’. For the year 2020, the theme is yet to be announced, but we can assume it will be regarding the pandemic that we are all undergoing – coronavirus.
How Is India Celebrating National Doctor’s Day?
In India, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared July 1 as state holiday to pay gratitude to doctors, nurses and others, who are working as frontline warriors. She has also urged the Centre to declare Doctor’s Day as a ‘national holiday’ to pay respect and acknowledge the frontline COVID-19 warriors.
Also Read: Mumbai Doctor Jalil Parkar Calls His Fight Against COVID-19 As ‘Defeating Death’
On the other hand, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has said that the state will observe ‘National Doctors’ Day’ in honour of frontline workers who are risking their lives to tackle the pandemic in the worst-hit state. He said, “Maharashtra will observe National Doctors’ Day on Tuesday. As they are fighting for us, I offer my gratitude to them. COVID-19 is not over yet, we will tackle this issue together. We should not be restless and go out unnecessarily.”
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