As many as 1205 MBBS doctors joined the Odisha government as Medical Officers at a government programme organised at Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday.
The appointment came close on the heels of the horrific train mishap at Bahanaga where 288 people lost their lives and more than 600 are currently under treatment.
Congratulating the new Medical Officers, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that this is a huge addition at one go to the existing strength of doctors in the state and added that this will certainly strengthen healthcare in government hospitals and further improve patient satisfaction. He expected them to serve people with sincerity and empathy.
A Chief Minister’s Office press release said, “Everyone is aware of the train tragedy in Balasore that shook the nation, even the world. It’s a time of immense grief and sorrow. But, this accident has proved the strength of Odisha, its ability to rise up to the expectation during the time of crisis.”
The CM said, “The train accident has manifested the compassion and humanity of the people of Odisha. Doctors, medical students, general public….all had one thing in mind…. Let’s save life… as many as we can. And we have saved more than a thousand lives. People providing support to rescue operations, and the long queues for blood donation are rare sights but invaluable. I am proud of my people. I am proud of Odisha.”