Raipur, October 2026 : he annual festival ‘Impetus-2026’ was organised at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Medical College in Raipur, celebrating the institution’s 63-year-old tradition of academic excellence. Students enthusiastically participated in various academic, literary, sports and cultural activities.
As part of the festival, ‘Euphoria-2026’, a cultural programme featuring music and singing, was organised, with students showcasing their talent through captivating performances across different musical genres.
The winners of various competitions were felicitated by Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Vikasheel at a programme held on Wednesday evening at the college’s Atal Bihari Vajpayee Auditorium. Commissioner of Medical Education Ritesh Agrawal and former Dean of the college, Dr Chand Kumar Shukla, were also present on the occasion.
Medical College Reports Significant Achievements
Presenting the annual report for 2025-26, college Dean Dr Vivek Chaudhary highlighted the significant achievements of Pandit Nehru Medical College and Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Raipur, in medical education, research, patient care and institutional development.
The college received approval from the National Medical Commission (NMC) to increase its MBBS seats from 230 to 250. Important steps were also taken to introduce additional seats in super-speciality courses, expand internship opportunities for Foreign Medical Graduates from 17 to 64, and strengthen postgraduate and allied health science programmes.
Initiatives such as a tele-education system connecting 10 government medical colleges in Chhattisgarh, a teleradiology network, faculty training and certifications from national regulatory bodies helped improve academic quality and administrative efficiency.
Various hospital departments provided healthcare services to lakhs of patients and recorded notable achievements in complex surgeries, maternal and child healthcare, cancer treatment, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, emergency medicine and blood services.
The institution also expanded its research and diagnostic facilities. Infrastructure development included civil construction works worth Rs 1.40 crore, procurement of modern medical equipment, renovation of the central library, improvements to hostel facilities, smart classrooms, a children's park and other essential amenities.
These achievements were attributed to the collective efforts of doctors, teachers, resident doctors, nursing officers, staff members and students, along with the support of the Chhattisgarh government.
Chief Secretary Emphasises Compassion in Medical Practice
Addressing the students, Chief Secretary Vikasheel appreciated their dedication and enthusiasm in organising the annual festival. He highlighted three important lessons for aspiring doctors: balancing academic responsibilities, maintaining perspective on success and preserving happiness in life.
He observed that medical students often struggle to balance studies, examinations and adequate sleep. Many believe that clearing the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is their biggest challenge, only to discover after entering medical college that it marks the beginning of a long series of examinations and professional responsibilities.
The Chief Secretary emphasised that medicine is both a science and an art. While technology and artificial intelligence can play important roles in healthcare, they cannot replace human sensitivity, compassion or the ability to reassure patients who are frightened by illness.
He said becoming a good doctor requires not only medical knowledge and technical expertise but also an understanding of patients' emotions and concerns.
Advising students to remain ambitious without taking themselves too seriously, he said success should not be measured solely by examination scores, rankings or admission to postgraduate courses. Building meaningful relationships, contributing to society and becoming better human beings are equally important.
He encouraged students to accept setbacks and unexpected circumstances while continuing to work towards their goals.
Vikasheel also urged students not to postpone happiness until the future. Friendships, hostel life, late-night conversations, cultural programmes, music, dance and sports would become treasured memories, he said.
He reminded students that they might eventually forget their marks in subjects such as anatomy or pathology, but would continue to cherish the joyful moments shared with friends.
Concluding his address, the Chief Secretary urged students to regard medicine not merely as a profession but as an opportunity to serve humanity. A successful doctor, he said, is one who listens carefully, understands patients' problems and provides treatment with trust and respect.
He wished the students success in becoming knowledgeable, sensitive and compassionate doctors who remain committed to lifelong learning, asking questions and improving through experience.
Panthi Dance and Cultural Performances Enthral Audience
The cultural programme featured a Panthi dance performance by medical students based on the life, ideals and teachings of Baba Guru Ghasidas Ji, which received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Shruti Singh of the 2025 batch presented a solo dance to a medley of Bollywood songs. Divya Minj performed to popular tracks, including Tenu Kala Chashma and Bawan Gaz Ka Daman. Jiyana Qureshi presented Jiya Jale, while Harshita Sahu performed Prem Ki Leela. Arnav Bisen added to the musical celebrations with a keyboard performance.
A skit titled Anarkali Ki Minar addressed myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. Through different roles, the medical students highlighted how several social beliefs about periods have no scientific basis.
The performance emphasised that menstruation is a normal and natural biological process in women's bodies, using theatre to promote awareness and challenge social stigma.
The annual festival brought together academic achievements, healthcare advancements and cultural expression, reflecting the medical college's commitment to education, service and the all-round development of future healthcare professionals.
