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Kadambini Ganguly: Pioneering Doctor
Context:
Born on 18th July 1861 in Bhagalpur, Kadambini Ganguly was a trailblazing Indian woman who overcame substantial obstacles to become one of the nation’s earliest female medical professionals in the late 19th century.
Early Activism and Education:
- Born in 1861 in Bhagalpur, Bihar, influenced by her father’s advocacy for women’s education.
- Overcame societal barriers to become the first woman to graduate from Calcutta University in 1882.
Medical Career and Advocacy:
- Admitted to Calcutta Medical College in 1884, becoming its first female student despite discrimination.
- Earned multiple medical diplomas in Britain, returning to India as a respected practitioner.
Contributions to Women’s Health:
- Advanced women’s health in India, challenging biases in medical education and practice.
- Served as superintendent at Lady Dufferin Women’s Hospital, advocating for better healthcare for women.
Political Engagement:
- Addressed the Indian National Congress in 1890 (Calcutta), advocating for women’s education and empowerment within the nationalist context.
- Organised women’s conferences to promote nationalist causes and challenge social norms.
Role in Legislative Reform:
- Played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Age of Consent Act in 1891, addressing child marriage and exploitation of young girls.
- Appointed by the British government to conduct a critical survey and submit recommendations that influenced the legislation.
Legacy and Impact:
- Kadambini Ganguly’s activism in the nationalist movement and her efforts in women’s rights and labour reforms marked significant contributions despite historical oversight.
- Her multifaceted advocacy bridged medical practice with social and political reform, shaping India’s early struggle for independence.