- By Sakshi Gupta
- Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
JE Education Desk: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has instructed all Central Government medical teaching institutes, such as the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Institutes of National Importance (INIs), to create a fresh dress code for their convocation ceremonies.
The new dress will be based on the local traditions of the states where these institutes are located, a departure from the European-style black robe and cap that have previously been worn during these events.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare sent a letter to the heads of all central government hospitals, AIIMS/INIs/Central Government Medical Teaching Institutes, detailing the new policy.
The habit of donning black robes and crowns during convocation rituals dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe. This custom was brought to India during the British colonial period and is now accepted by academic institutions all around the country. However, with India's increasing focus on decolonizing education and celebrating its rich cultural past, the Ministry of Health has decided to swap out this colonial legacy with apparel that reflects the country's different customs.
Thawngzachin Chinsum Naulak, Under Secretary to the Government of India, signed the letter, which stated, "It has been observed that currently, as a matter of practice, black robes and caps are being used during convocations by various Institutes of the Ministry. This attire originated in the Middle Ages in Europe and was introduced by the British in all their colonies. The above tradition is a colonial legacy which needs to be changed."
It is observed that currently as a matter of practice black robe and cap is being used during convocation by various Institutes of the Ministry. This attire originated in the middle Ages in Europe and was introduced by the British in all their colonies. The above tradition is a… pic.twitter.com/S2hBwsPGdh
— ANI (@ANI) August 23, 2024
According to the instructions, each medical institute under the Ministry's control must create a convocation dress code that is inspired by the local customs of the state in which the institute is situated. This initiative is designed to instil an awareness of cultural pride and local identity in the convocation rituals, making them more relevant and representative of India's tradition.
The letter also states that recommendations for the new dress code should be presented to the Ministry through the appropriate divisions for examination and authorization by the Secretary of Health.
Institutes were urged to collaborate with local craftspeople and cultural specialists to create new apparel that is both authentic and representative of the region's tradition. The Ministry has stated that it will study and certify the suggested designs to ensure they are consistent with the national policy of encouraging indigenous customs.
This action is viewed as an important step toward promoting Indian culture and identity, particularly in terms of education and academic accomplishment. By implementing Indian dress norms for convocation ceremonies, the government hopes to instil a sense of pride and belonging in medical graduates.