Jaipur: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday congratulated the Maheshwari Samaj, Jaipur, on beginning a new chapter in its long tradition of social service with the establishment of the Maheshwari Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre.
Addressing the foundation-laying ceremony of the proposed institution, Shri Birla said the Maheshwari community has built an inspiring legacy through its commitment to service, sacrifice, dedication and social responsibility. He noted that the community’s contributions have benefited society and continued to inspire successive generations.
Recalling the community’s role in promoting education, the Lok Sabha Speaker said visionary members of the Maheshwari Samaj had recognised the importance of education nearly a century ago. As early as 1926, during British rule, members of the community came together to establish schools and educational institutions despite limited resources and difficult circumstances.
Shri Birla also highlighted the community’s contribution to India’s freedom movement and its association with the values of sacrifice and patriotism symbolised by the revered Bhamashah. He said the Maheshwari Samaj continued its service-oriented work even in challenging times by setting up educational institutions in underserved areas and constructing dharamshalas for travellers.
From schools and hospitals to dispensaries, community centres, hostels and scholarship programmes, the community has consistently worked to address the changing needs of society, he said.
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, Shri Birla said India demonstrated the strength of its collective social consciousness during one of the most difficult periods in recent history. He said the spirit of compassion, collective responsibility and the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which regards the world as one family, has helped society face major challenges.
Emphasising that nation-building cannot be the responsibility of governments alone, the Lok Sabha Speaker said citizens, voluntary organisations and social institutions must also play an active role. He added that service to society can be offered not only through financial contributions but also through knowledge, skills, professional expertise, dedication and hard work.
Speaking about the proposed medical institution, Shri Birla underlined the growing importance of quality medical education, healthcare, research and innovation. He stressed that modern healthcare facilities should become accessible and affordable for all sections of society, including people living in remote villages and distant regions.
He expressed hope that the Maheshwari Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre would develop into a model charitable and research-based institution for the country. According to him, the institution should contribute not only to medical treatment but also to medical and nursing education, advanced research, innovation and the development of solutions for emerging healthcare challenges.
Shri Birla said resources can always be mobilised when a social initiative is driven by a clear purpose and strong determination. He added that wealth and success acquire greater meaning when they are utilised for the welfare and progress of society.
Extending his best wishes to the Maheshwari Samaj and everyone associated with the initiative, the Lok Sabha Speaker expressed confidence that the new institution would become a symbol of service and compassion and make a meaningful contribution towards strengthening accessible, affordable and quality healthcare in Rajasthan and across the country.