New academic session inaugurated at PGIMER

The new academic session of the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) was inaugurated on Tuesday at Bhargava Auditorium, PGIMER. Dr Digambar Behera, Professor Emeritus, PGIMER, and president, National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), New Delhi, attended the ceremony as the chief guest.

The Padma Shri awardee shared his insights on the topic ‘Medicine: Past, Present & Future – Evolution Through the Ages'. He stressed on the importance of ethical practice and empathy in the medical profession, two essential pillars that are increasingly vital as healthcare becomes more complex. It resonated with the core message of the inauguration — the need for healthcare providers to focus on the humanity in medicine.

Prof RK Ratho, Dean (Academics), PGIMER, conducted the pin-up ceremony of 300 resident doctors who joined the institute in July 2024 and January 2025 sessions.

Prof Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, said: “In the realm of healthcare, it is not the state-of-the-art infrastructure that define our greatness, but rather our unwavering commitment to humanity. It is this deep-rooted devotion that allows us to transcend the limitations of infrastructure and truly make a difference in the lives of our patients."

The event was attended by dignitaries such as profs YK Chawla, Jagat Ram and Subhash Verma; Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), Prof Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Head of Hospital Administration.

Dr Behera concluded his address with a message on the future of medicine in an increasingly technological world. He stated, "AI should be a partner, not a replacement. Medicine is a bridge between science and humanity. By combining knowledge, technology, and empathy, we can save the future of healthcare." Prof Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research), PGIMER extended the vote of thanks.