Bhubaneswar/New Delhi, Dec 5: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday extended warm wishes to Dr K Lakshmi Bai, a renowned gynaecologist from Berhampur in Odisha, on her 100th birthday. The President praised Dr Bai’s extraordinary gesture of donating her entire life savings of Rs 3.4 crore to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for the establishment of a gynaecological oncology course, calling it a significant step towards women’s empowerment.

President’s Message

In her letter, President Murmu wrote: “I wish you on your 100th birthday! May you be blessed with good health and a peaceful life. Your donation for starting a gynaecological oncology course is a very significant step towards women’s empowerment. I deeply appreciate your thoughtful gesture.” She added that Dr Bai’s life is a shining example of how education can empower individuals to bring positive change in society.

A Lifetime of Service

Dr Lakshmi Bai, who has no children, was part of the first MBBS batch at SCB Medical College, Cuttack, in 1945. She completed her MD in obstetrics and gynaecology from Madras Medical College in 1958. Her government service began at Sundargarh hospital in 1950, and she later served at several hospitals and medical colleges before retiring from MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, in 1986.

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Philanthropic Contributions

Apart from her landmark donation to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Dr Bai also contributed Rs 3 lakh to the Berhampur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society to support a vaccination drive among adolescent women aimed at preventing cancer. Speaking about her decision, she said: “In Odisha, we don’t have the treatment for cancer, so that’s why I gave this money.”

Inspiring Legacy

Dr Bai’s contributions reflect her lifelong commitment to women’s health and empowerment. Her philanthropy is expected to inspire others to support healthcare initiatives, particularly those benefiting underprivileged women.