Over 2,000 docs attend state-level conference

PIMACON-2024, a state-level annual conference of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Punjab, concluded recently at the IMA House in BRS Nagar, attracting over 2,000 doctors from across the state and neighbouring regions. The conference, organised under the aegis of the Punjab Medical Council and hosted by IMA Ludhiana, served as a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, celebrating medical excellence, and reinforcing the crucial role of the profession in the upliftment of society.

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The event’s inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr Balbir Singh, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, as the chief guest. In his address, Dr Singh emphasised the collaborative efforts between IMA Punjab and the state Government, particularly in the implementation of healthcare schemes aimed at improving public health services. He commended the commitment of the medical community in serving the people of the state and reassured the government’s ongoing support to address the challenges being faced by healthcare professionals.

Dr Rajiv Sood, Vice-Chancellor of Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, also spoke at the event, highlighting the need for upskilling paramedical staff to strengthen Punjab’s healthcare infrastructure. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the IMA to provide skill training to healthcare workers, ensuring enhanced healthcare delivery at all levels.

Dr Sunil Katyal, president of IMA Punjab and organising secretary of the event, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, sponsors, and delegates for their support. He acknowledged the collective efforts of IMA Punjab members and reiterated the association’s commitment to advancing medical education and community healthcare.

Dr Manoj Sobti, state coordinator of IMA Punjab and organising chairman of PIMACON-2024, called for unity within the medical fraternity and condemned violence against healthcare professionals. He affirmed IMA Punjab’s dedication to protecting doctors’ rights, while continuing to serve the public with dedication.

A key moment during the conference was the installation of Dr Vikas Chhabra as the new president of IMA Punjab for 2025, officiated by Dr Balbir Singh. In his address, Dr Chhabra outlined a comprehensive framework for community welfare, with a focus on public education initiatives such as HPV vaccination awareness and other preventive healthcare programmes. He emphasised the vital role doctors played in raising awareness and improving the state’s healthcare landscape.