Subodh Mitra obtained his MD (1924) from University of Berlin, German and FRCS (1925) from University of Edinburgh, UK specializing in obstetrics and gynaecology, cancer surgery and radiology. He served as the Assistance Suprintendent and Resident Surgeon, Carmichael Medical College (now RG Kar Medical College) Kolkata; Assistant Surgeon, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan Hospital, Kolkata; Director Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; RG Kar Medical College and simultaneously Principal of Chittaranjan Seva Sadan College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Child Health; Vice-Chancellor, University of Calcutta.

Academic and Research Achievements: Mitra designed a new technique of operation for cancer of the cervix (extended radical vaginal hysterectomy and extra peritoneal lymphodenectomy). It is now known all over the world as ‘Mitra operation’ for cancer of the cervix. He made special contributions to cancer surgery of the uterus, toximia and anaemia of pregnancy and fundamental research in general on cancer. He was recognized as one of India’s leading cancer surgeons.

Other Contributions: Mitra started a special hospital for cancer patients.

Awards and Honours: Mitra was an Honorary Member, Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Italy. He served as Sectional President, International Congress of Obstetrics (New York, 1950; Geneva 1951), German Congress of Obstetrics (Munich, 1952); International Cancer Congress (Brazil, 1954); Co-Chairman, Second International Obstetrics and Gynaecological Congress (Vienna, 1961).