Dharamshala, Oct. 7 -- Sometimes doctors are reluctant to go to far-flung and remote areas to treat patients, but I hope that you never refuse to serve in such locations. Even if it is for one or two years, I hope you go to such places and serve the people there," President Droupadi Murmu said while addressing the first convocation of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bilaspur, on Tuesday. Murmu urged the first batch of doctors graduating from the AIIMS Bilaspur to serve in remote and backward areas, where doctors are often reluctant to work. At the start of her address, the President paid obeisance to Mata Shri Naina Devi, the deity of the 'shakti peeth' in Bilaspur. She acknowledged Bilaspur's sacred soil and its historical significance. While addressing the graduates, the President said, "If you had wished, you could have chosen another profession to become economically prosperous, but you chose a path of service. It is said that selfless service brings rich rewards and inner peace. Financial progress stays behind, but service to others remains with you." Describing Bilaspur as the "land of valiant soldiers", Murmu said she was happy to be present at the institute's first convocation. On the occasion, the President felicitated five gold medalists and distributed degrees to other graduates. Congratulating them, she noted that they should feel immense pride as the first graduating class of AIIMS Bilaspur. She reminded the students that as the first batch to receive degrees from the institution, they bear a unique responsibility to set a positive example for future generations. "It is said that a first impression lasts long. That is why your hard work and commitment will be followed by those who come after you. This is indeed a proud moment for you. But this comes with a responsibility. You have to lay the foundation of the identity and legacy of this institution," she said. Union minister for health and family welfare J P Nadda, governor Kavinder Gupta, chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and other senior state leaders attended the event. Addressing the gathering, Nadda highlighted the expansion of medical education in the country. He said that the number of medical colleges has increased from 384 to over 800, while undergraduate medical seats have risen from 51,348 to 1.42 lakh....