The Doctor’s Day is celebrated on July 1 all across India to honour the legendary physician and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. He was born on July 1, 1882 and died on the same date in 1962, aged 80 years. Dr Roy was honoured with the country’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna on February 4, 1961.
Medical Council of India instituted Dr. B.C. Roy Award in 1976 in memory of Bharat Ratna Dr. B. C. Roy. The Award is given annually in each of the following categories: Statesmanship of the Highest Order in India, Medical man-cum-Statesman, Eminent Medical Person, Eminent person in Philosophy and Eminent person in Arts. It is presented by President of India in New Delhi on July 1, the National Doctor’s Day.