150th Anniversary of Medical College, Calcutta
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 20, 1985 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1015 Stamp Number IN 1081 Yvert et Tellier IN 831 Stanley Gibbons IN 1153 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Schools |
Commemorative Stamp: Medical College, Calcutta – 150 Years
Founded in 1835 by Lord William Bentinck, the Medical College, Calcutta stands as a pioneering institution in India’s medical education landscape. Established to impart European allopathic medicine to Indian youth without regard to creed or caste, it has since evolved into a premier institute renowned for its contributions to medical education and healthcare.
Historical Background
- Genesis and Early Years: The institution’s origins can be traced back to 1824 when a vernacular medical school was initiated, owing to the dedication of native doctors who initially served as compounders and dressers. Lord Bentinck’s educational committee recommended its formal establishment in 1835.
- Inauguration and Leadership: On February 20, 1835, the college commenced operations with Dr. M.S. Bramely as Principal, Dr. H.H. Goodeve as Professor of Anatomy and Medicine, and Pundit Madhusudan Gupta as the instructor from the native school. The first batch of 50 students received stipends ranging from Rs 7 to 12 per month.
- Milestones and Achievements: The college achieved significant milestones, including the first dissection of a human body by Pundit Madhusudan Gupta and four students in 1836, overcoming prevalent superstitions. In 1838, it graduated the first five Indian doctors, with Babu Uma Charan Sett securing first place.
- Development and Expansion: The institution grew steadily, with hospital and college buildings developed through public donations by 1910. The centenary celebrations in 1935 marked a pivotal moment, and in 1984, the foundation stone for the Terjubilee College building was laid.
Contributions to Medical Education
- Firsts and Landmarks: Noteworthy achievements include affiliating with the University of Calcutta in 1857, admitting the first female medical student, Kadambini Ganguli, in 1884, and sending the first Indian students abroad for higher studies in 1854.
- Distinguished Alumni: The college has produced numerous eminent medical professionals who have made significant contributions to the field, including Sir N.R. Sircar, Sir U.N. Brahmachari, Sir Kedarnath Das, and Dr. B.C. Roy, among others.
- Current Status: Today, the Medical College, Calcutta trains 750 undergraduates and 100 postgraduates annually. Its hospital, which began with 20 beds, now serves 2000 in-patients and 6000 out-patients daily, underscoring its role in healthcare delivery.
Conclusion
The issuance of this commemorative postage stamp by the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department honors the 150 years of pioneering service by the Medical College, Calcutta. It celebrates the institution’s enduring commitment to medical education, research, and healthcare, reflecting its evolution from humble beginnings to a leading medical institution in India.
This stamp commemorates the Medical College, Calcutta’s remarkable journey of 150 years, highlighting its pivotal role in advancing medical education, pioneering medical practices, and shaping the healthcare landscape in India.