LUCKNOW, July 14 -- A doctor's true identity is shaped not merely by medical knowledge, but by compassion, empathy and ethical conduct, defence minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday as he urged medical graduates to ensure that their "healing touch" is reflected as much in their behaviour as in their treatment. Cautioning against the impact of 'white coat syndrome', a condition in which patients become anxious in the presence of doctors, he said patients remember a doctor's warmth and reassuring words long after treatment is over and emphasised that trust should replace fear often associated with the syndrome. "A patient's diagnosis is often hidden in what they say. Doctors must listen patiently and treat every patient with dignity and equality," he said addressing the 22nd convocation of King George's Medical University (KGMU). Artificial Intelligence is bringing rapid progress in medical sciences but it cannot replace human compassion, Singh said, urging budding doctors to work with empathy towards patients and their families. The minister said new technologies such as artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, gene editing and precision medicine are transforming both the direction and the landscape of healthcare. The defence minister asserted that India is setting new benchmarks in medical research and developing indigenous solutions to global health challenges through gene therapy and nuclear medicine. "Today, India's health system has emerged as more self-reliant, accessible, affordable, modern and people-centric as compared to earlier times. Today, India is developing indigenous solutions to global health challenges through gene therapy, nuclear medicine and other modern technologies," Singh said. The Lok Sabha MP from Lucknow said the country's scientists have successfully demonstrated an indigenous gene therapy to treat haemophilia and scientists at an institute in Pune have developed a nanomedicine for breast cancer. Singh also underlined the importance of preventive healthcare, advising doctors to practise yoga and meditation themselves before recommending healthy lifestyles to others. He also called for greater research on women's health, wider awareness about organ donation and greater adoption of advanced medical technologies, including gene therapy, CAR-T cell therapy and nano-drug-based treatment for breast cancer. "India's health sector has witnessed unprecedented transformation over the last 12 years. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our government's goal has not merely been to provide medical treatment, but to build a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable and quality-driven," Singh said....