Palamu Loses Dr. Surendra Singh, the ₹5 Doctor Who Cared for All

The community of Palamu is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Surendra Singh, a physician renowned for his incredible generosity and his token ₹5 consultation fee. He was widely regarded as the ‘God of the Poor’ for his unwavering commitment to accessible healthcare. Dr. Singh never saw medicine as a business venture, consistently providing honest care without demanding exorbitant fees or suggesting unnecessary tests. His availability was legendary; patients could seek his help anytime, day or night, without facing any barriers. For a long time, he served in Haidernagar, charging only ₹5, a sum that barely covered the basic expenses. He frequently saw upwards of a hundred patients daily, generously offering free treatment to many. He would often decline payment from patients in his village and surrounding rural areas, viewing their well-being as his primary concern. This philanthropic approach continued in Ramna and Nagar Untari. After relocating to Daltonganj, his reputation preceded him, and a private hospital invited him to serve. He remained steadfast in his ₹5 fee policy, a reflection of his core values. Ultimately, he agreed to a ₹50 fee under pressure from the hospital administration, but his heart remained with the common man. Born into a modest family in Murma village, Dr. Singh understood the financial burdens of the poor firsthand. He greatly valued personal connections and never charged his own people. His modest lifestyle and unassuming presence were characteristic of his humility. Dr. Surendra Singh’s life exemplifies the highest ideals of the medical profession, proving that compassion and service are the true measures of a healer.