The Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS) in Patna marked a significant moment on Monday, October 6, 2025, with the orientation program and White Coat Ceremony for its newly admitted MBBS students of the 2025 batch. The ceremony, held at the Central Auditorium of IGIMS, was a blend of tradition, academic guidance, and inspiration for the incoming students. This event is an important milestone in the students’ medical education journey, symbolizing the transition from academic life to the professional world of medicine.

Welcome Address and Introduction to Medical Education

The program was presided over by Dr. Ranjit Guha, the Principal of IGIMS. Dr. Guha opened the ceremony with a warm welcome to the new students and their families, highlighting the academic expectations and structure of the MBBS curriculum. He explained the various aspects of the course, including the focus on theoretical knowledge, clinical practice, and hands-on experience. The Principal emphasized the values of discipline, compassion, and commitment to the medical profession, describing the start of their journey as “a step towards a lifetime of service to humanity.”

Dr. Guha’s address provided an overview of the facilities available to students at IGIMS, as well as the academic resources that will support them throughout their medical studies. His message was one of encouragement, urging students to be diligent, compassionate, and driven by a sense of duty as they embark on their medical education.

Faculty and Administrative Presentations

Several key faculty members and administrators also addressed the gathering, providing important insights into the various aspects of medical education and life at IGIMS. Dr. Manish Mandal, the Medical Superintendent, spoke in detail about the clinical postings and the services available at the hospital. He assured the students that they would gain invaluable clinical experience throughout their training, which would prepare them for real-world medical challenges.

Dr. Vibhuti Prasanna Sinha, the Deputy Director (Administration), discussed the administrative structure of the institution, explaining the student support systems in place. She also touched upon the various facilities and services that students would have access to during their academic journey at IGIMS, from counseling support to extracurricular activities.

Dr. Rajesh Tiwari, the Dean of Examinations, provided clarity on the examination and assessment process that the students would undergo throughout their MBBS program. He encouraged students to focus on continuous learning and improvement, as medical education requires both theoretical and practical knowledge. The Dean of Academics also highlighted the importance of hostel life, the academic opportunities available, and the institute’s strong anti-ragging measures, ensuring that students would have a safe and conducive environment to thrive in.

The White Coat Ceremony and Charaka Pledge

The White Coat Ceremony was the highlight of the event, serving as a formal induction for the new batch into the medical profession. The ceremony, which symbolizes the responsibility that comes with wearing the white coat, was led by IGIMS Director, Prof. Dr. Binde Kumar. The students were presented with their white coats, marking their entry into the medical field. This ceremony is a tradition in medical education, signifying the commitment of the students to upholding the ethical standards and values of the medical profession.

Following the White Coat Ceremony, Dr. Tarun Kumar, Head of the Department of Physiology, administered the Charaka Pledge. This pledge is an essential part of the ceremony, where students vow to uphold the ethical values of medicine, including compassion, integrity, and respect for human life. It serves as a reminder to students of the high moral standards expected from them as they advance in their medical careers.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

Dr. Rekha Kumari, Head of the Department of Biochemistry, delivered the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the ceremony. She expressed her gratitude to the faculty, students, and parents for their participation, acknowledging the efforts that went into making the event successful. She also emphasized the significance of the event in shaping the future of these young medical aspirants and their journey toward becoming compassionate and skilled doctors.

Tour of the Academic Facilities

After the formal ceremony, the students were given a guided tour of the first-year academic departments. This provided them with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the classrooms, laboratories, and other essential facilities. The tour helped the students to get a sense of their academic environment and prepare for the practical aspects of their education in the coming years.

Principal’s Reflection on the Event

Principal Dr. Ranjit Guha described the event as “a defining beginning in the lives of young medical aspirants.” He thanked the faculty and staff for ensuring the smooth conduct of the ceremony and for their continuous support to the students. Dr. Guha emphasized the importance of such events in motivating students as they take their first steps into the world of medicine.

He further noted that the orientation and White Coat Ceremony is a momentous occasion that marks the commencement of the students’ educational journey. It is designed to instill a sense of pride and responsibility in them as they embark on this prestigious path. The ceremony also served as a reminder of the long road ahead, with challenges and learning experiences that would shape them into skilled doctors.

The Foundation Course: A Strong Start for the New Batch

The new MBBS students will soon begin their Foundation Course, a critical part of their early education. This course is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge required for the medical curriculum, including subjects like anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. The course will also introduce students to the practical skills they will need as they progress in their medical studies.

IGIMS offers state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a supportive academic environment that will enable the students to excel in their studies. The Foundation Course serves as a stepping stone for these young medical aspirants, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their medical education and later in their professional careers.

The orientation and White Coat Ceremony at IGIMS marked a significant milestone for the new batch of MBBS students. The event not only welcomed them into the academic community but also set the tone for their medical education, emphasizing the values of discipline, compassion, and professionalism. The students, now formally inducted into the world of medicine, are poised to embark on a journey that will shape their futures and contribute to the betterment of society.

As the students begin their journey at IGIMS, they can look forward to a comprehensive and enriching medical education, supported by dedicated faculty and cutting-edge facilities. With the foundation laid through this event, the new batch of medical students is ready to face the challenges ahead, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethics required to become compassionate and competent doctors.

This ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for the students, filled with academic rigor, clinical experiences, and a commitment to serving humanity. The IGIMS community looks forward to watching these students grow and succeed in their medical careers, contributing to the advancement of healthcare and making a positive impact on the world.