The United Doctors Front (UDF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, organized the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 – Young Professionals Roundtable at the Government Medical College, Amritsar, on the occasion of National Doctors Day. The discussions centered on the theme ‘Fit Bharat – Hit Bharat’, bringing together doctors, medical students, health professionals and administrators to deliberate on health challenges and youth participation in nation building.Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria attended the program as the chief guest, while Brigadier Harcharan Singh (VSM), Arjuna Awardee, winner of Olympics and Hockey World Cup, was the guest of honour. The roundtable was chaired by Dr. Lakshya Mittal, president of the United Doctors Front, and moderated by Dr. Simar S. Kullar, the UDF Punjab coordinator. The faculty members of the Government Medical College, Amritsar, and Gursevak S. Brar (PPS), Additional Inspector General (Intelligence), Punjab, were also present.During the discussions, participants highlighted concerns about the working conditions of doctors, especially resident doctors, pointing to long working hours and continuous shifts that they said have a negative impact on mental health and general well-being. The speakers noted that improving health care requires adequate support and recognition for medical professionals.The panel also discussed the importance of nutrition, fitness and work-life balance. Participants encouraged health professionals and young people to incorporate regular physical activity into their routines, emphasizing that maintaining physical and mental health is essential despite demanding work schedules.In the meeting, Dr. Lakshya Mittal said: “On Doctors’ Day, we should not only honor doctors, but also look at the real problems they face every day. Long working hours and mental stress affect many doctors, which have a direct impact on the provision of quality care to patients and this requires practical solutions.“He also added: “At the same time, fitness, good nutrition and participation in sports must become part of everyone’s lifestyle. No matter how busy life is, we must take some time for ourselves because a healthy nation can only be built by healthy individuals.”During the event, the United Doctors Front launched two public awareness campaigns. The first, the Drug Free Bharat Campaign, promoted awareness against substance abuse and highlighted the National Addiction Helpline (14446). The second campaign, entitled “The gift of life”, encouraged organ donation through the National Organization for Organ and Tissue Transplantation (NOTTO).Medical students and young doctors who participated in the dialogue were awarded certificates at the conclusion of the program.
