President Murmu praises PMCH’s legacy at centenary event

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday hailed the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) as a symbol of national pride, emphasizing its rich legacy in the medical field.

Attending the centenary celebrations of this prestigious healthcare institution as the chief guest, President Murmu stated, “PMCH has a glorious history of producing exceptional doctors who have made significant contributions to the medical field across the world.”

She highlighted PMCH’s pioneering role in researching and combating diseases like Kala Azar and its contribution to providing top-tier medical professionals in India and beyond.

PMCH’s Transformation into a Global Medical Hub

President Murmu noted that PMCH is undergoing a ₹5,540 crore transformation, making it the second-largest hospital in the world. The upgraded facility will feature a 5,462-bed hospital and a helipad for air ambulance services.

“It is a matter of great pride that Bihar’s PMCH is now counted among the largest and most advanced hospitals globally,” she remarked, underscoring Bihar’s growing significance in India’s healthcare advancements.

PMCH’s development aligns with India’s broader push for world-class medical infrastructure, reinforcing its role as a key player in the nation’s healthcare ecosystem.

Political Undertones in Healthcare Advancements

The event also played into Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s development narrative ahead of the state Assembly elections.

During the celebrations, Kumar took a swipe at previous Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) governments, criticizing the poor state of healthcare infrastructure under former Chief Ministers Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi.

“Hospitals in Bihar were in a precarious state during Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi’s tenure. Before we came to power in 2005, only 39 people visited Primary Health Centres (PHCs) for treatment on average. Now, more than 11,000 patients seek treatment at PHCs every month,” Kumar claimed, attributing the drastic improvement to his government’s efforts.

With Bihar making significant strides in healthcare, the transformation of PMCH could serve as a major talking point in Kumar’s re-election campaign.