HT Correspondent
NAHARLAGUN, June 28: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General KT Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd) graced the second Graduation Ceremony of the 2019 MBBS Batch of Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) as the Chief Guest at the TRIHMS Complex, Naharlagun, on Saturday.
During the event, the Governor awarded graduation certificates to 46 medical students, including 29 from Arunachal Pradesh.
According to an official statement, the Governor described the ceremony as a significant milestone, not just for the graduating doctors but also for society.
He commended the graduates for their perseverance, sacrifice, and commitment, reminding them that their white coats represent both personal achievement and a lifelong responsibility to serve humanity with empathy, integrity, and skill.
In his address, the Governor stressed the principle of “Service before Self,” stating that the medical profession is not only a career but a moral calling.
He urged the graduates to serve where their presence is most needed, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
He also encouraged them to remain lifelong learners, grounded in humility and guided by strong ethical values.
The Governor remarked that true education begins outside the classroom, in hospital wards, outreach camps, and patient interactions.
He called upon the young doctors to combine scientific knowledge with compassion, to lead with empathy, and to let humility shape their approach to healing.
Acknowledging the contributions of TRIHMS to the state’s healthcare system, the Governor praised Director Dr Moji Jini and the faculty for their efforts in building a strong foundation for medical education in Arunachal Pradesh.
He noted that TRIHMS has swiftly emerged as a vital centre for education, innovation, and community healthcare.
The Governor also highlighted the national healthcare vision under the Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative and underscored the importance of aligning with India’s developmental goals.
He advocated for enhancing healthcare infrastructure, expanding rural services, and incorporating technology into medical education.
He recommended integrating Artificial Intelligence, telemedicine, and digital health solutions into the curriculum, alongside modules on ethical practice, soft skills, and cultural sensitivity.
He further commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in promoting a holistic and patient-centric healthcare approach, making special mention of the ‘Heal in India’ initiative aimed at positioning the country as a global centre for wellness and medical excellence.
He highlighted the role of technology, including digital health IDs and telemedicine services, in improving healthcare access and reducing financial burdens for patients, especially in remote areas.
Addressing the TRIHMS faculty, the Governor called for a balanced approach in teaching, with equal emphasis on infrastructure development and nurturing socially conscious, compassionate doctors.
He stressed the need for mandatory rural postings and stronger linkages between medical colleges and local health systems to reduce gaps in healthcare delivery.
During the ceremony, Dean and Principal of TRIHMS, Dr Shyamal Bhattacharya, administered the graduation oath to the students.
The occasion also featured addresses by State Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge, Rajiv Gandhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof S K Nayak, TRIHMS Director Dr Moji Jini, and Dr Mika Umpo.
Several academic excellence awards were presented during the event.
Hage Sonya (2020-21), Tsering Pema (2021-22), Prem Lata (2022-23), Smile (2023-24), and Dr Badal Kumar Pandit (2024-25) received the Minoti Riba Memorial Gold Medal in Anatomy.
Resum Kamki (2020-21), Dibyadarshi Suman (2021-22), and Dr Phancha Wangsu (2024-25) received the Nirmali Taba Memorial Gold Medal in ENT.
Dr Indira Moyong from Roing, Lower Dibang Valley, was awarded as the Topper of the Final Year MBBS Examination held in 2024.
The Governor also presented diploma certificates to postgraduates in various disciplines.
Dr Angellie Kahmei and Dr Sushamanka Das received diplomas in Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Dr Animesh Namdeo and Dr Millo Apo in Anaesthesiology; Dr Lenong Lego in Radiodiagnosis; and Dr Taru Tari in Radiology.
The Graduation Ceremony at TRIHMS marked a memorable day, celebrating the achievements of young medical professionals and reinforcing the state’s commitment to building a compassionate, technology-driven, and inclusive healthcare system.