Dehradun | April 13, 2025
In a significant development ahead of the annual Char Dham Yatra, the Uttarakhand government’s initiative to strengthen healthcare services during the pilgrimage has received a major boost from the central government. The National Medical Commission (NMC) has officially approved the state’s proposal to deploy postgraduate medical trainee doctors on a voluntary basis during the Yatra season.
This approval not only validates the Dhami government’s commitment to ensuring safe and efficient pilgrimage experiences but also introduces a new chapter in public health policy — where spiritual journeys intersect with practical medical training.
Specialist Care Meets Sacred Journey
Under the approved plan, MD, MS, and DNB postgraduate medical students will now be eligible to receive their District Residency Programme (DRP) certification by serving during the Char Dham Yatra. This means trainee doctors can complete their DRP requirements without the need for a separate three-month rotation, as the services rendered during the pilgrimage will be officially recognized under the program.
Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, the state’s Health Secretary, emphasized the dual impact of this initiative: “Not only will it benefit thousands of pilgrims with access to specialized healthcare in high-altitude and emergency conditions, but it will also provide trainee doctors with invaluable hands-on experience in Himalayan medicine.”
Strengthening Infrastructure and Medical Access
The Uttarakhand government will provide full logistical support to participating doctors, including accommodation, meals, transport, and official certification. The health department is actively upgrading medical units along the pilgrimage routes to ensure rapid and effective medical response capabilities.
Support from Across the Nation
Since the NMC’s approval, medical colleges and institutions from across India have shown keen interest in participating. Young doctors are welcoming the initiative as a rare opportunity to serve the nation while gaining field experience in challenging terrains.
Dr. Raghav Langer, Secretary of NMC, called it a model of academic-public health collaboration. “This is a remarkable example where medical education and social service come together in national interest,” he said. “Doctors serving in these conditions will play a critical role in managing health risks posed by large crowds, high altitudes, and changing weather patterns.”
Collaborative Governance in Action
The success of this program highlights a cooperative spirit between the central and state governments. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s leadership, Char Dham Yatra is being positioned as a benchmark for safe, smooth, and structured religious tourism.
Chief Minister Dhami’s Vision
Welcoming the NMC’s decision, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami stated, “Our aim is to ensure the Char Dham Yatra is not just a spiritual journey but also one defined by safety and care. The central government’s support energizes our mission and reflects how federal collaboration can truly serve the people. This initiative empowers pilgrims with robust healthcare and gives young doctors a unique opportunity for meaningful service and training.”
As the 2025 Char Dham Yatra approaches, the combined efforts of the Uttarakhand and central governments promise a safer, healthier, and more compassionate experience for millions of devotees — while laying the foundation for innovative public health strategies rooted in real-world challenges.
