The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed Central Government medical teaching institutes, including AIIMS and INIs, to design a new dress code for their convocation ceremonies, aiming to break away from colonial-era traditions. The new attire will be based on local traditions, a departure from the traditional European-style black robe and cap worn during these ceremonies.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a letter to the heads of all central government hospitals, AIIMS/INIs/Central Govt. Medical Teaching Institutes, outlining the new directive. The ministry emphasised the importance of this change as a step towards breaking away from colonial legacies and embracing India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Shift from Colonial Legacy in Convocation Ceremony
- Black robes and caps, a tradition introduced by the British during the Middle Ages, are now used in Indian academic institutions.
- The Ministry of Health is advocating for a change to reflect India’s diverse traditions, aligning with India’s growing emphasis on decolonizing education.
The letter, signed by Thawngzachin Chinsum Naulak, Under Secretary to the Government of India, 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.”
Medical Institutes in India to Design Local Tradition-Inspired Convocation Attire
- Medical institutes under the Ministry’s jurisdiction must design a convocation dress code inspired by local traditions.
- The aim is to instill cultural pride and local identity in convocation ceremonies.
- Proposals for the new dress code should be submitted to the Ministry for consideration and approval by the Secretary of Health.
- Collaboration with local artisans and cultural experts is encouraged for the new attire design.
- The Ministry will review and approve the designs to align with national policy of promoting indigenous practices.
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Source: TOI
