Sushila Nayyar

Dr Sushila Nayyar, 1947

Sushila Nayyar (1914–2000) was a prominent Indian physician, known for her close association with Mahatma Gandhi, serving as his personal physician. Her contributions to the field of medicine and her role in the Indian independence movement have made her a notable figure in Indian history.

Early Life and Education

Sushila Nayyar was born in 1914 in Kundli, a village in the state of Haryana, India. She pursued her medical education at the Lady Hardinge Medical College in New Delhi, where she was one of the few women to study medicine at the time. After completing her medical degree, Nayyar went on to specialize in public health.

Career

Nayyar's medical career was deeply influenced by her association with Mahatma Gandhi. She first met Gandhi in 1935 and was drawn to his philosophy of non-violence and self-reliance. She joined Gandhi's Ashram in Sevagram, where she served as his personal physician and also participated in the Indian independence movement. Nayyar played a crucial role in integrating health and hygiene practices into Gandhi's programs for rural development.

Apart from her work with Gandhi, Nayyar had a distinguished career in public health. She was instrumental in the establishment of several health institutions in India, including the Kasturba Health Society and the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences in Sevagram. Her efforts were focused on improving healthcare accessibility in rural areas and promoting preventive healthcare practices.

Political Career

After India's independence, Sushila Nayyar also ventured into politics. She was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's Parliament, representing the Kheda constituency in Gujarat. During her tenure, she focused on health policy and worked towards the improvement of healthcare services across the country.

Legacy

Sushila Nayyar's legacy is marked by her contributions to the field of medicine and her dedication to public service. She authored several books on health and hygiene, drawing from her experiences working alongside Gandhi. Her work in rural healthcare and her efforts to integrate traditional Indian medicine with modern medical practices have left a lasting impact on the healthcare system in India.

Nayyar passed away in 2000, but her work continues to inspire healthcare professionals and public health advocates. She is remembered as a pioneer in the field of public health in India and as a key figure in the country's struggle for independence.