In the quietude of my earliest memories, I was profoundly stirred by the suffering of those afflicted by illness, oppression, and discrimination—my heart particularly ached for the plight of women and the disenfranchised. This burgeoning empathy blossomed into a fervent dedication to the ideals of health, equality, and justice, guiding me to the venerable path of medicine. It was there, in the service of the vulnerable and marginalized, that I found my purpose.
As a doctor, my journey took a deeper dive into the realm of public health, where I became acutely aware of the myriad social and environmental factors that shape our health. My focus sharpened on occupational health, where the stark reality of harsh working conditions and exploitation faced by many Indian workers—predominantly women—was laid bare before me. With resolve, I committed my life’s work to enhancing the health and safety of these laborers, their rights and well-being.
Now, as Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Occupational Health at AIIHPH Kolkata, within the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, I am deeply involved in research, training, and outreach initiatives that address occupational and environmental health concerns. My passion extends to eradicating gender disparity in the workplace, and I proudly serve on the internal complaints committee to combat sexual harassment.
Mindful of the profound effects of climate change and the necessity of sustainable practices on health, I advocate for eco-conscious and resilient methodologies in my field. As I stand poised to embark on this Leadership Journey, I am eager to impart my knowledge, absorb the wisdom of other trailblazers, and collaborate towards forging a safer, more equitable world for workers and communities alike.
To echo the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” It is with this spirit that I join hands with fellow leaders, ready to be the catalyst for the change we so deeply need.
