Gangtok, May 12: Madhu Mala Gurung, Senior Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) posted at Rangpo Primary Health Centre under District Hospital Pakyong in East Sikkim, has been conferred the prestigious Florence Nightingale Award 2026 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to healthcare services and her unwavering commitment to community welfare over nearly four decades.
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| President Droupadi Murmu presents the Florence Nightingale Award 2026 to Senior ANM Madhu Mala Gurung of Sikkim in recognition of her decades-long contribution to grassroots healthcare and community service. (Image: X/rashtrapatibhvn) |
The award, one of India's highest honours for nursing professionals, was presented by President Droupadi Murmu during a national ceremony. Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Florence Nightingale Award recognises exceptional dedication, compassion, and excellence in patient care by nursing professionals across the country.
Madhu Mala Gurung was honoured for her long and distinguished career in public healthcare, particularly for her dedicated service among tribal and indigenous communities in Sikkim. Throughout her career, she has played a vital role in delivering essential healthcare services in remote and underserved areas, contributing significantly to maternal and child health, immunisation programmes, disease prevention, and community health awareness.
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Her remarkable service during the COVID-19 pandemic received special recognition, as she worked tirelessly on the frontline to provide medical assistance, conduct awareness campaigns, and support vaccination efforts despite challenging conditions. Her contribution during natural disasters, including flood emergencies, was also acknowledged for ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services to affected communities.
Health officials praised Gurung's disciplined, compassionate, and people-centric approach to patient care, noting that her commitment has earned widespread appreciation from both district and state health authorities. Her dedication to serving vulnerable populations has made her a respected figure in Sikkim's public health system.
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Addressing the gathering during the award ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu lauded the nursing fraternity for its invaluable contribution to strengthening India's healthcare system. She said nurses continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and selfless service while working under demanding circumstances.
The recognition of Madhu Mala Gurung has been widely welcomed in Sikkim, with officials describing the honour as a matter of pride for the state. Her achievement stands as an inspiration to healthcare professionals and highlights the critical role played by frontline health workers in improving public health, strengthening community resilience, and delivering quality healthcare services across the country.
