A doctor from Odisha has donated ₹3.4 crore to AIIMS Bhubaneswar to support women’s cancer care just days before turning 100. The contribution has been made by Dr K Laxmi Bai, a retired gynaecologist who spent decades serving in government medical institutions in the state. AIIMS officials said the donation will be used to strengthen facilities for the treatment of women with cancer, with a focus on improving access to specialised oncology services.
Dr Laxmi Bai began her medical career after completing her training in gynaecology and went on to serve as a professor at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur before retiring in 1986. Her donation is regarded as a major act of philanthropy directed towards women’s healthcare, particularly in areas where access to dedicated cancer treatment remains limited.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar, which has been expanding its cancer care services in recent years, is expected to utilise the funds to upgrade clinical infrastructure and support programmes that enhance early detection and treatment outcomes. The institution has noted a rising number of cancer cases, with many women from economically weaker backgrounds depending on government facilities for timely medical care.
Dr Laxmi Bai’s decision to contribute her savings to the hospital underscores her lifelong commitment to improving health services in Odisha. The donation, coming shortly before her 100th birthday, stands out as a significant gesture aimed at strengthening medical support systems for women battling cancer.
