• Leaders and Members of the Association of Surgeons of Mizoram
• Participants
• Dear Friends

I am truly delighted to be invited this evening at the Inaugural Function of the 4th Annual Conference of the Association of Surgeons of Mizoram. It is a privilege to stand before a gathering of such distinguished professionals who dedicate their lives to advancing the field of surgery.

The contributions of surgeons throughout history have been crucial in shaping the field of medicine, enhancing patient care, and advancing human well-being. In recent times, surgeons have played pivotal roles in global health initiatives by participating in medical missions, providing essential surgical care in deprived areas, and addressing public health challenges.

In Mizoram, we recognize the vital role that surgeons play in the overall wellbeing of the society.

Due to this same recognition, expectation is also high, and we the public may be unaccommodating when it comes to error.

Therefore, this profession may sometimes feel like a thankless job, when the long hours, complex cases and its emotional toll are not taken into account.

Most likely, positives are often taken for granted, and the slightest mistakes are overstated.

But all these indicate the profound impact doctors have, and the expectations that come with such an impact.

It would be pertinent to give recognition to doctors working in remote and rural areas, who have made a significant impact on underserved communities.

In some places, the geographical terrain poses logistical challenges, making access to medical facilities a complex task. Doctors posted in such places are often required to navigate challenging landscapes in order to fulfill the noble task of bringing healthcare to those residing in far-flung areas. Due to this, in the quiet corners of rural areas, these doctors are not merely practitioners of medicine, but are also bearers of hope.

I offer my congratulations for an extraordinary milestone achieved last year. For the first time in Mizoram, a medical team headed by Dr John Lalliandinga successfully operated on conjoined twins at Zoram Medical College. I congratulate the ASM as a whole, and the medical team in particular, for the remarkable achievement. It was an exceptional collaboration of multidisciplinary professionals, which is crucial for addressing complex medical cases.

I may add that each achievement, whether big or small, contributes to the advancement of healthcare and the betterment of human lives. Therefore, I also acknowledge and commend each one of you for your unwavering commitment to this profession.

The Central Government has lent its support under National Health Mission to the States and UTs.

These include maternal health, child health, adolescent health, family planning and universal immunisation programmes.

Among these various programmes, the maternal and child health initiatives have been instrumental in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, showcasing the impact of proactive medical intervention.

I encourage the doctors in Mizoram to continue your participation in the implementation of these initiatives, and to lend your support to the community health programs, vaccination campaigns, and awareness drives.

As Mizoram continues its journey towards progress, the role of doctors remains integral in shaping a healthier and thriving future.

May your expertise and dedication bring healing and hope to those in need. With these few words, I wish the Annual Conference a grand success.

Thank you.

Jai Hind.