Bhubaneswar: In an extraordinary act of generosity, Dr K. Laxmi Bai, one of India’s most respected gynaecologists, has donated Rs 3.4 crore from her life savings to AIIMS Bhubaneswar to strengthen cancer care services for women. The contribution comes just days before she turns 100 on December 5, marking a milestone both personal and philanthropic.
Vision to Strengthen Women’s Cancer Care
Speaking to TNIE, Dr Laxmi Bai expressed that her heartfelt wish is for the institute to establish a dedicated gynaecological oncology programme. She hopes the initiative will nurture the next generation of specialists while offering hope to countless women battling cancer.
Additional Support for Adolescent Vaccinations
Alongside the major donation, Dr Bai has also contributed Rs 3 lakh to the Berhampur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society. The funds will be used to support vaccination drives aimed at preventing cancers among adolescent girls, a crucial step in early prevention and women’s health.
Medical Fraternity Lauds Her Gesture
Her contribution has drawn admiration from doctors across the country. Dr Saubhagya Kumar Jena, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, issued a formal appreciation letter acknowledging her noble initiative. Members of the Berhampur society also expressed gratitude and confirmed that a plan will soon be finalised to utilise the funds effectively.
AIIMS Team to Attend Felicitation Ceremony
Doctors from AIIMS Bhubaneswar are expected to visit Dr Bai’s residence in Bhavnagar for a felicitation event organised by her former students. During the ceremony, the AIIMS team is likely to share details on how they intend to deploy the donated funds for patient care and programme development.
A Career Defined by Service and Excellence
Dr Laxmi Bai’s five-decade-long medical career has made her a revered figure in Indian healthcare. Known for her clinical expertise and tireless commitment to women’s health, she has inspired generations of doctors through her dedication to compassionate, accessible care.
A Historic Academic Journey
Born on December 5, 1926, her distinguished academic journey began as part of the first-ever MBBS batch at SCB Medical College, Cuttack, in 1945. After completing her degree in 1950, she pursued DGO and MD (O&G) from Madras Medical College, followed by a one-year MPH programme at Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA, supported by a prestigious stipend.
A Legacy Honoured Through National Awards
Beginning her service in 1950 at the Government Hospital in Sundargarh, Dr Bai later retired as a professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, in 1986. Over the years, she has been honoured with multiple accolades, including the Lady Eminence of South Odisha, Bharat Jyoti Award, International Friendship Society recognition, and the Best Citizen of India Award.
