Centenary of St. Stephen’s Hospital, Delhi
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 25, 1985 |
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1036 Stamp Number IN 1102 Yvert et Tellier IN 851 Stanley Gibbons IN 1171 |
| Themes | Buildings | Hospitals |
St. Stephen’s Hospital, inaugurated on October 31, 1885, stands as Delhi’s first hospital dedicated to women and children, initially nurtured by the efforts of Mrs. Priscilla Winter and a committed group of women. From its humble beginnings as a riverside medicine distributor in 1864, it evolved into a rented house dispensary in 1874, then expanded to a 40-bed hospital at Chandni Chowk in 1885, and later a 100-bed facility at Tis Hazari in 1909. By 1976, it had grown into a 375-bed general hospital, and today it serves as a renowned 450-bed modern hospital, equipped with specialties to cater to diverse community health needs.
Apart from its historical significance as the first Zanana hospital, St. Stephen’s was a pioneer in introducing prenatal and well-baby clinics, recognized early for its postpartum programs by the government, and it established the first Nursing Training School. Throughout its growth, the hospital has been driven by a philosophy of service and compassion, ingrained as a way of life among its staff, ensuring high standards of personalized patient care.
St. Stephen’s has consistently championed the cause of the economically disadvantaged, allocating 75% of its beds in the general ward for subsidized treatment, and providing free healthcare for the very poor. Its outreach extends to resettlement colonies across the Yamuna, where it operates a Community Health Care Centre integral to its integrated Community Health Programme.
Entering its second century, St. Stephen’s Hospital faces the challenge of implementing a comprehensive development program to enhance its services further, aligning with the evolving healthcare needs of the community. The hospital’s motto, “In Jove serve one another,” underscores its commitment to service and care.
In recognition of its centenary in 1985, St. Stephen’s received accolades from figures like Smt. Indira Gandhi, who praised its pivotal role in Delhi’s healthcare landscape and its enduring dedication to social welfare. The hospital’s history is a testament to its namesake, embodying a legacy of service and compassion in healthcare.