Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Indians were prominently recognized at Buckingham Palace as King Charles III marked his 75th birthday with a special reception honoring international nurses and midwives contributing to the National Health Service (NHS). Approximately 400 healthcare professionals from countries including India, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Kenya gathered to celebrate their vital roles in the UK’s health and social care sector. Notably, Indians lead the approximately 150,000 international nurses and midwives currently serving in the NHS during its 75th-anniversary year.
The reception, a part of the monarch’s birthday festivities, showcased the diverse contributions of healthcare professionals, fostering a sense of appreciation and acknowledgment. King Charles III engaged with the guests, displaying warmth and interest in their experiences. Shreejith Mulaleedharan, an Indian staff nurse based in Scotland, described the experience as “a wonderful, once in a lifetime” opportunity to meet the king. Rohit Sagoo, founder and director of British Sikh Nurses, expressed gratitude for the recognition of Sikh nurses’ contributions within the NHS.
The event took place against the backdrop of the NHS’s significant milestone and underscored the vital role played by international healthcare workers. The contributions of professionals from various countries, including India, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Kenya, were lauded as integral to the success and resilience of the UK’s healthcare system.
King Charles III spent his birthday engaging in various royal events, showcasing his commitment to public service. The celebration included a surprise rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ by the NHS choir and a birthday card presentation from a schoolgirl sharing the same birthdate. The festivities extended beyond Buckingham Palace, with gun salutes and illuminated birthday messages in Piccadilly Square.
The monarch’s dedication to public service was evident earlier in the day as he, alongside Queen Camilla, launched the Coronation Food Project in Oxfordshire. The initiative aims to address food waste and food shortages simultaneously by rescuing surplus food and distributing it to those in need.
Victoria Atkins, the newly appointed Health Secretary, expressed appreciation for the global contributions to the NHS, emphasizing the close ties between the UK and India. The event served as a testament to the global collaboration within the healthcare sector, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds of professionals contributing to the UK’s health and social care landscape.
The birthday celebration underscored the significance of international healthcare professionals, particularly Indians, in upholding the success and resilience of the NHS. King Charles III’s engagement with the guests reflected a genuine appreciation for their dedication and contributions, further fostering a sense of unity and recognition within the healthcare community.
