Acacio Gabriel Viegas

Dr. Acacio Gabriel Viegas (1856-1933) was a medical practitioner who was credited with the discovery of the outbreak of bubonic plague in Bombay, India in 1896. His timely discovery helped saved many lives in the city and was credited with the innoculation of 18,000 residents. He was also the president of the Bombay Municipal Corporation.

As president

Not satisfied with serving the public only through medicine, he successfully contested the civic election from 1888 till 1907. In 1906 he became the President of the Municipal Corporation, enjoying the distinction of being the first native Christian to do so.

Related Topics:
1888 - 1907 - 1906 - Christian

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He was an active member of the Standing Commitee and the Improvement Trust. He then focussed his attention to improving the living conditions of the city's poor and down-trodden. He also tried to minimise the increases of public utility costs. As president, Veigas promoted medical relief and introduced compulsory free education.

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Veigas was also a member of the Bombay University Syndicate, and was the pioneer of the Faculty of Scientific Technology. He also introduced Portuguese into the syllabus and supported the creation of special colleges for women. He was also an examiner in Medicine at the degree level and Foundation-Fellow of the College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Related Topics:
Bombay University - Portuguese - College of Physicians and Surgeons

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