The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS), Sevagram, celebrated its Foundation and Annual Day on September 11, 2024, in the New Auditorium. The event was graced by Lt. General Madhuri Kanitkar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik, who served as the Chief Guest for the function.
The event was presided over by Shri P. L. Tapdiya, President of the Kasturba Health Society. Other dignitaries present on the dais included Dr. B.S. Garg (Secretary, Kasturba Health Society), Dr. A.K. Shukla (Dean, MGIMS), Dr. Poonam V. Shivkumar (Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital), and Dr. Satish Kumar (Officer-in-Charge, Students’ Council). Faculty, staff, students and parents also attended the function.
Dr. A.K. Shukla delivered the welcome address and presented the Annual Report, highlighting the institute's achievements over the past year. “MGIMS is not just any other medical college but a value-based institution, sensitizing students to the needs of the community,” said Dr. Shukla.
"The medical profession in India is ailing, and I need your help to solve it," Lt. General Kanitkar said in her address to the graduating students. She highlighted the out-of-pocket expenses of patients and the gap between the haves and have-nots as key issues needing immediate attention. She urged the students to take ownership of their responsibilities and continue the work left unfinished by previous generations. "Securing admission to MGIMS is an honor in itself," she added, while praising MGIMS for producing some of the best doctors in the country.
Lt. General Madhuri Kanitkar honored undergraduate and postgraduate students with awards and medals for their academic excellence and contributions to extracurricular activities. Hospital staff members were also acknowledged for their dedicated service. Shri Tapdiya Ji felicitated Lt. General Kanitkar, expressing gratitude for her gracious presence and engagement throughout the day. Lt. General Kanitkar graciously spent the day gaining a deeper understanding of the various aspects of MGIMS, its unique community outreach initiatives and contributions to the healthcare sector.
In his Presidential Address, Shri Tapdiya Ji commended MGIMS community for its commitment to the mission of promoting excellence in medical education and healthcare. He also announced a grant of Rs 10 crore under the ‘Shri Dhirubhai Mehta Memorial Scheme,’ in memory of Kasturba Health Society's former President, Shri Dhirubhai Mehta, to enhance research at the institute.
Dr Satish Kumar presented the formal introduction of Lt. General Kanitkar. Mr. Prafull Dhere, Students' Secretary, presented the Students’ Council Report, offering insights into the student activities and initiatives undertaken throughout the year. The program was conducted by Dr. Abhay Deshmukh (Associate Professor of Pathology) and Ms. Anoushka Sakpal (Undergraduate Student, Batch 2021). The celebration continued with a cultural program in the evening, where MGIMS students showcased their talents. Lt. General Kanitkar also interacted with the students, providing them with valuable insights and encouragement as they embark on their medical careers.
“Receiving this award from Lt. General Madhuri Kanitkar is an incredible honor. MGIMS focus on holistic education—from academic excellence to community service—has shaped my understanding of what it means to be a healthcare provider. I am truly indebted to MGIMS for instilling in us the values of compassion, empathy, and integrity,” said Ms. Avani Tambi (Batch 2019), who received the overall Best Student Award.