International Nurses Day: Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh terms nurses as backbone of healthcare system, commends their role in serving humanity

Chandigarh, May 11, 2023: On the eve of International Nurses Day, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Thursday, expressed gratitude to the nurses of Punjab for their selfless and devoted service towards the betterment of humanity.

"Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, and their experience and expertise are vital in improving healthcare outcomes. In Punjab, nurses have been at the forefront of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing critical care to patients and supporting their families during these challenging times,” he said, while adding that it is critical to acknowledge the indispensable role that nurses play in the healthcare system and their significant contributions to the health and wellbeing of people.

Notably, International Nurses Day is an annual event being celebrated on May 12 globally to recognise the exceptional contributions made by nurses to healthcare and society as a whole. The day is marked as a homage to Florence Nightingale, a nurse who worked for humanity and saved the lives of several soldiers during the Crimean war in the years 1853-1856, showing the path of selfless service with dedication. In the year 1974 International Council of Nursing approved this day as International Nurses day.

Dr Balbir Singh further said, “I take this opportunity to express my profound appreciation for the nursing profession and the vital role they play in the healthcare system.” He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses for their unwavering commitment to the profession, their patients, and the community.

Director Health and Family Welfare Dr Adarshpal Kaur informed that the Punjab Department of Health and Family Welfare has been observing this occasion by organising various events and activities throughout the state. She congratulated the nurses and underlined their important role in patient care. “We can not imagine a holistic treatment of a patient without the services of a nurse, who delivers vital patient care services in the health institutions,” she said.

Director Health Services (Family Welfare) Dr Ravinder Pal Kaur said this year's theme of International Nurses Day “Our Nurses Our Future” aims to bring a spotlight on nurses and their brighter future by bringing their priceless services in front of policymakers, the public, and all the stakeholders, who make decisions affecting the delivery and financing of healthcare. “We will continue to support our nurses,” she added.

On this occasion, Dr Ravinder Pal Kaur accompanied by Director National Health Mission Dr SP Singh released a poster depicting the contribution of nurses to mark the International Nurses Day. Principal SIHFW DR Jaswinder Kumari and State Program Officer (MCH) Dr Inderdeep Kaur were also present.