Book on CMC Vellore ‘To the Seventh Generation’ Launched in Chennai

On March 20, 2025, V.I. Mathan, former director of Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, launched the book “To the Seventh Generation: The Journey of Christian Medical College Vellore” in Chennai. The first copy was presented to Dr. Vikram Mathew, the current director and haematologist at CMC Vellore, while the second copy was given to Dr. V.V. Bashi, director of the Institute of Cardiac Diseases at SIMS, Vadapalani. The book chronicles CMC Vellore’s historical evolution, including insights from Ida Scudder, the institution’s founder.

Key Points

Book Launch & Contributors

• The book was launched by Dr. V.I. Mathan, former CMC Vellore director (1994-1997).
• The first copy was received by Dr. Vikram Mathew, the current director.
• The second copy was received by Dr. V.V. Bashi, senior consultant and director at SIMS, Vadapalani.

Insights on CMC Vellore’s History

• The book chronicled CMC Vellore’s journey and its evolution as a medical institution.
• Dr. Mathan, who spent 50 years at CMC, was among the few who personally knew Ida Scudder, the founder.

Dr. Bashi’s Journey at CMC

• Joined CMC Vellore in 1980, foregoing an MCh degree opportunity.
• His tenure from 1980-1992 played a vital role in shaping his surgical career.
• CMC’s emphasis on teaching, publishing, and hands-on training influenced his growth.

Evolution of Medical Practice

• Dr. Bashi reflected on the shift from traditional methods to AI and machine learning in medicine.
• He emphasized that patient examination and history-taking remained essential skills, even with modern technology.

Book Reading Session

• Activist Usha Jesudasan read selected passages from the book.