PUNE: KEM Hospital, Pune, successfully conducted the third edition of the National Conference on Fetal Medicine, bringing together leading experts to discuss advancements in prenatal diagnostics, fetal therapy, and the growing importance of fetal medicine as a specialized branch.

Experts at the conference highlighted that early intervention plays a vital role in improving outcomes for both mother and baby. Conditions such as fetal growth restriction, congenital anomalies, genetic disorders, and placental insufficiencies can often be identified early, facilitating multidisciplinary planning, targeted treatment, and—in certain cases—life-saving fetal procedures before birth. The National level conference saw presentations and guidance from various renowned experts, including Dr. Manikandan Krishnan, a renowned consultant in fetal medicine, Prof. Suresh Seshadri, Director of MediScan Systems Diagnostic Ultrasound, Fetal Medicine and Training Centre in Chennai, Dr.Sudarshan S., a renowned fetal medicine expert, and  Dr.Shreepad Karhade, HoD Fetal Medicine Department at KEM Hospital. The participants included gynaecologists, radiologists, and fetal medicine experts.

This conference was organised as part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to continuous medical education, complementing its strong focus on clinical excellence and research.

Fetal medicine is rapidly emerging as a critical field in modern healthcare, focusing on the early identification, monitoring, and management of conditions affecting the unborn baby. With advancements in ultrasound technology and fetal imaging, clinicians can detect developmental anomalies as early as the first trimester. This early diagnosis allows timely interventions, informed decision-making, and better preparedness for high-risk pregnancies.

KEM Hospital’s Department of Fetal Medicine has been a pioneer in providing comprehensive prenatal services in the region. The hospital offers advanced ultrasound evaluations, fetal echocardiography, growth and Doppler studies, genetic counselling, and coordinated care for high-risk pregnancies. Its multidisciplinary team—including maternal-fetal medicine specialists, neonatologists, geneticists, and obstetricians—ensures accurate diagnosis, compassionate counselling, and seamless care from pregnancy through delivery.

Dr. Manikandan Krishnan, a renowned fetal medicine expert, said that fetal medicine has four pillars – prevention, detection of abnormalities, treatment, and support through making the couple get answers as they are overwhelmed with a lot of questions in their mind.

The challenge is that a vast majority of people, because of a lack of awareness, come much later in the pregnancy, said Dr.Sudarshan S. fetal medicine expert based out of Chennai. We need to create awareness that they should come before they plan a pregnancy, where genetic counselling will also come into the picture. Speaking about the future of fetal medicine, he said that the research is going on multiple levels. We are doing a lot of research in AI to see how machine learning algorithms can be set up to read all the pictures and whether these algorithms can be incorporated in the ultrasound machines so that primary care level persons can also see any red flags and refer them further to the specialist. Advancements in research are also happening in abnormalities and genetic problems.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Xerxes Coyaji, Medical Director, KEM Hospital, Pune, said, “Fetal Medicine is transforming the landscape of prenatal care. Early and accurate diagnosis empowers families and clinicians alike, enabling timely interventions that can significantly improve perinatal outcomes. At KEM Hospital, our commitment is to ensure that every expectant mother has access to high-quality, evidence-based fetal care.”

Fetal Medicine Consultants Dr. Shreepad Karhade and Dr. Shweta Gugale emphasized that parents and the public need to be aware that certain conditions identified during fetal life can be treated while the baby is still in the mother’s womb. These treatment options are highly complex and require an advanced level of expertise, involving extensive training, close mentoring, and a highly skilled team of multidisciplinary subspecialists. “The right patient receiving the right treatment at the right time from the right team ensures the best outcome for the unborn child,” they noted.

The event was led by Organising Chairperson Dr. Vivek Joshi, with Organising Secretaries Dr. Shreepad Karhade and Dr. Shweta Gugale, supported by an experienced scientific committee. The conference underscored KEM Hospital’s commitment to expanding fetal medicine awareness and strengthening access to advanced prenatal care for families across

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MUMBAI: Steel scrap is emerging as the key input for green steel, speakers at the 12th Indian Steel Markets Conference said.

“Steel is one of the few materials that can be recycled infinitely without losing its strength or quality. That makes it not only the backbone of industrial growth, but also of sustainability. India today consumes around 42 million tonnes of scrap annually, and this figure is rising by over 6% year-on-year. Nearly 9 million tonnes of scrap is imported into the country every year,” Vinaya Varma, Managing Director, mjunction services limited, said at the opening session of the two-day 12th Indian Steel Markets Conference organised by mjunction services limited kicked off here today. 

In line with global concern of decarbonising the steel sector, the theme of the conference this year is the “Indian Steel Value Chain – Recycle. Reshape. Innovate. Sustain.”

“Sustainability is no longer optional but strategic,” said Syed Jawed Ahmed, Executive Director, SAIL, detailing how the public sector company is embracing sustainability and creating capabilities to meet evolving green steel norms.

Sourcing scrap remains a key concern for India as steel demand continues to rise.

“While government capex is driving 60% of steel usage, India’s young and growing population is also generating demand,” Girishkumar Kadam, Senior Vice President & Group Head, Corporate Sector Ratings, ICRA, said.

As steel demand and production rise, the sector is facing raw material sourcing challenges.

Import of coking coal is going to be expensive in the long run, while aggressive bidding for iron ore mines is driving up domestic iron ore costs, according to Sandeep Kumar, Vice President, Raw Materials, Tata Steel.

Beyond decarbonisation, the conference seeks to deliver deep insights into the volatile global and domestic landscape, critical policy shifts, evolving trade dynamics, and the imperative for sustainable practices that are reshaping the industry and driving the dialogue on India’s ambitious steel growth trajectory.

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The Infusion Nurses Society – India ( INS)  Pune Chapter, in association with Noble Hospitals, organised the 13th Annual INS Conference on November 7th and 8th, 2025, in Pune, India, at the Suzlon One Earth venue. The event’s theme was “Lines of Care, Lifelines of Change: Advancing Infusion Practice for a Resilient Tomorrow”. The focus was to advance infusion care, promote nursing excellence, and discuss innovations in infusion nursing through learning and sharing. More than 500 nurses participated in the conference, with around 2000 joining online. The conference was inaugurated in presence of Guest of Honours Lieutenant General Pankaj P Rao, Director and Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College, Dr. Archana Badhe, Registrar Maharashtra Nursing Council, and Dr. Nileema Sonawane, ADHS Nursing, Public Department, Maharashtra,  Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations (CAHO)   along with  Dr. Dilip Mane, Chairman and Managing Director, Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, Natalie Grant Nanda General Manager Business Strategy and Operations, Ruby Hall Clinic and other dignitaries. The organising team included Col. Binu Sharma, CEO -The Infusion Nurses Society – India ( INS), Col. Madhukari Ray, Vice President, Capt. Sandhya Shankar, National General Secretary, Tripti Nanda, Chairperson Organizing Committee, and Co-Chairpersons Dr. Sreelekha Rajesh & Ms Arya Kulkarni.

Colonel Binu Sharma, CEO of INS India, has been the visionary leader and guiding force behind this conference. She designed its foundational structure and guided every stage of planning and execution with clarity, precision, and purpose. Her strategic insight ensured coherence across scientific content, speaker coordination, and overall organization, while her mentorship fostered teamwork and professional growth among all involved. Her leadership stands as the cornerstone of this successful and impactful MEGS event held in the state of Maharashtra for the First time.

 Experts at the conference emphasized that infusion therapy, one of the most critical aspects of patient management, demands not only technical precision but also vigilance, empathy, and continuous upskilling.

Chief Guest of the conference and Lieutenant General Pankaj P Rao, Director and Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College, said that giving infusions is one of the most commonly performed functions, but a vital and very important part of patient care, and impacts patient outcome. Managing all this in today’s world with multiple vascular devices, preventing infections, and ensuring that each patient gets well with safety protocols and practices makes the work very demanding. Apart from technical expertise in infusion, one needs to be vigilant 24×7 and pay extraordinary attention to the minutest of details. Hence, what is required is constant practice, upgradation, which makes such conferences very useful. Every line that is inserted, the way it is inserted, every line of treatment represents care, and the outcome gives a new lease of life to the patient. Research, Innovation, advancement, and constant upgradation will make things safer and bring hope to patients as well as medical professionals.  While we adopt technology and advancements, human connection will remain the key.

Talking about the incredible transformation of nurses, Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations (CAHO), said that nurses should take leadership in healthcare.

Dr. Archana Badhe, Registrar Maharashtra Nursing Council, said that every nurse is not just a caregiver but also a leader, teacher, and lifesaver. Every life we connect, every drop we infuse, every hand we hold carries not just medicine but hope, strength, and healing. By empowering nurses with skills, we are not just empowering the system, but we are transforming lives. Your compassion brings dignity to care, discipline brings structure to healing, and dedication brings hope to the families. At Maharashtra Nursing Council, we are committed to nurturing that spirit with education, innovation, and integrity.

She added that at the Maharashtra Nursing Council, I am privileged to lead a remarkable force with two lakh registered nurses in Maharashtra, including 20000 dedicated govt nurses working in hospitals and health centres across the state. Each of the nurses represents the heartbeat of the healthcare system.

Dr. Nileema Sonawane, ADHS Nursing, Public Department, Maharashtra, said that continuous skill development with hands-on training is extremely important. She invited the society to have a hands-on workshop for nurses.

Dr. Dilip Mane, Chairman and Managing Director, Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, said that whenever I go on a round, I look at two things: one is the face of the patient, which reflects the improvement or deterioration in health, and the other is the IV line, which is just not the infusion line but a lifeline. This is vital for patients. Referring to the accreditations like JCI, NABH, and others, he said that we have always given importance to quality care, and nurses have a critical role to play in this aspect.  

Col. Binu Sharma, CEO The Infusion Nurses Society – India, ( INS)   said Infusion is something which every single patient admitted requires peripheral IV line, critical patients may also need complex lines like central line, arterial line etc, patient on dialysis require catheter, patients undergoing chemotherapy may require hickline and a chemo port which means infusion therapy is most critical when comes to managing patients. Many of these lines are inserted by nurses or managed and maintained by them. So, with rthe ight knowledge and practice, hands-on skills are important for safety of patients. The vision of the society is to provide internationally benchmarked clinical guidelines, which means an infusion standard of practice to doctors and nurses, and also to provide knowledge and a hands-on skill-based platform so that nurses can be trained to provide safe and outstanding services and experiences to patients for infusion.

She added that INS India has 17 chapters across the country with more than 5000 members, all nurses.

Delivering the welcome address, Capt. Sandhya Shankar, National General Secretary, INS, said that Infusion is no longer about IV lines and devices, it’s about lifelines that sustain recovery, dignity, confidence, and trust of the community who hand themselves over to us. 65% of patients receive infusion in some form or another.

Dr. Divij Mane, Director, Noble Hospitals and Research Center, said that this was far more than an academic gathering; it was a celebration of passion, precision, and purpose, which is the very essence of nursing. In a real sense, this conference, with its topics and participation, has set up a benchmark for future conferences. The conference brought together the very best in nursing, a mind that questions the hearts that care and hands that heal. Our sessions at the conference have reminded us that nursing is not just a profession but a movement that safeguards the safety of the patients, upholds dignity, and shapes the moral fabric of healthcare. It was a privilege to be in a conference amongst the nursing professionals who are confident, competent, and, as always, compassionate. The future of healthcare lies in empowered nurses who are not only skilled professionals,  leaders, educators, and more importantly innovators. It is time we encourage nurses to perceive specialities, whether it is precision therapy, whether it is oncology, infection control, etc., because when we nurture specialization, we elevate the entire profession. Nursing is a science, art, and leadership discipline in its own right.

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The day-long conference featured a series of high-impact sessions, customer success stories, live demonstrations, and expert panels focused on enabling a unified modeling and simulation (MODSIM) approach across sectors. Key themes included AI-powered simulation, digital twin experiences, sustainable design, and virtual validation.
Notable sessions included:

• Generative Experiences with MODSIM: Reshaping the Future of Innovation
• Leveraging Unified Design & Simulation for New Product Development
• Transforming Modeling & Simulation using Generative Experiences
• MODSIM Powered Digital Transformation at Honda
• Power of Integrated Design & Simulation through MODSIM Approach
• MODSIM Advanced Common Model for Simulations
• Leveraging MBSE to Empower Multidisciplinary MODSIM for Software-Defined Vehicles
• MODSIM Approach for Electrical System Design and Simulation for EMI/EMC Applications
• MODSIM Powered AI Using SIMULIA Solutions
• Generative Design with CATIA Solutions

Industry keynote speakers emphasized the critical role of MODSIM in enabling faster, cost-efficient innovation and sustainability impact. Live demonstrations showcased virtual twin applications in areas like decarbonization, resilient manufacturing, and smarter mobility.

MODSIM integrates modeling (CAD) and simulation (CAE) on a single platform, streamlining design, analysis, and validation. It bridges design, analysis, and validation within a unified environment, enabling real-time collaboration, faster time-to-market, and a reduction in physical prototypes and late-stage failures. Introduced in India as part of Dassault Systèmes’ effort to democratize digital innovation, MODSIM has matured into a flagship platform powering end-to-end product development across industries. The annual MODSIM India conference has grown into a showcase of customer success stories, cross-industry innovation, and transformative use cases. MODSIM 2025 represents a significant milestone, highlighting how Indian enterprises are using integrated design-simulation approaches to enhance competitiveness, accelerate R&D, and drive sustainable growth across automotive, infrastructure, life sciences, and more.

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He was speaking at the inaugural session of an international conference titled ‘BC2AD’ (Before ChatGPT to AI Disruption) jointly organized by the Maharashtriya Mandal’s Chandrashekhar Agashe College of Physical Education (CACPE) and MES’s Garware College of Commerce (Autonomous). The 2-day conference is taking place MES Auditorium at BSM School, Mayur Colony, Kothrud.

Air Marshal Bhushan Gokhale (Retd), President of Maharashtriya Mandal & Maharashtra Education Society, Rohan Damle, Secretary of Maharashtriya Mandal, Neha Damle, Education Director of Maharashtriya Mandal, Prof. Sanjeev Sonawane, Hon. Vice Chancellor of YCMOU, Dr. Sanjay Tambat, Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies at SPPU, Dr. Vivek Sawant, Chief Mentor of MKCL, Dr. Sopan Kangane, Principal of MM’s CACPE,  Dr. Kishor Desarada, Principal of MES Garware College of Commerce, Dr. Shraddha Naik, Conference Convenor, Pradip Naik, VP of MES, Babasaheb Shinde, Chairman of the Governing Body of MES, Rahul Mirasdar, Member of the Governing Body of MES, Dr. Sudam Shelke, Director of the Board of Sports at SPPU and Dr. Umesh Bibave, Director of Sports at Garware College of Commerce were present on occasion.

“After the new government took over every ministry had to plan and execute a 100-day program, I am glad to inform you that our Department of Higher and Technical Education ministry has completed the task of introducing 38 online courses which would be offered through the Yashwantrao Chavan Open University and would be of duration ranging between 4 and 9 months”, he added.

Referring to AI as an entity that needs to be Handled with Care Patil said that the state government is gearing up to establish the first-ever university on Artificial Intelligence which is likely to start functioning in June this year. “Use of AI by the Coaches in training can enhance the overall performance of the player”. The use of AI will also make the process of training more scientific, he added.

On a lighter note, Chandrakat Patil said, “In a recently held party meeting in Shirdi he was discussing the power of AI with his colleague in the cabinet Ashish Shelar. Who asked one of the AI tools about the possible list of Guardian Ministers of the districts in Maharashtra, which were yet to be appointed at that time. The AI gave the list. Watching this CM Devendra Phadnavis came there and asked us to give input on a list of Guardian Ministers in the current political situation and the list that was generated is the current list of District Guardian ministers. Otherwise, you know who would have been the Guardian Minister of Pune?”.

Prof. Sanjeev Sonavane, Vice Chancellor of YCMOU said, “If India has to realize the dream of the Prime Minister of making India a developed country then we need to progress in all areas. The number of Medals won at the Olympics is also an important indicator of the progress made by the country. Use of data will play a crucial role in this regard.” 

This two-day conference explores the impact of technology, innovation, and AI on sports, fitness, and physical education. The event includes keynotes, panel discussions, demos & workshops related to the increasing use of AI in these fields, its benefits, and potential risks.

 Rohan Damle, Secretary of Maharashtra Mandal made the opening remarks, and Dr. Kishor Desarada presented a vote of thanks.

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The conference was honored to host the President of the American Association of Gynaecologic Laparoscopy, along with leading experts from Italy, France, Europe, America, and Turkey, who shared insights into the latest advancements in minimally invasive gynecological surgery. Themed “Innovate, Operate, Elevate,” the sessions covered the latest advancements in laparoscopic surgery, endometriosis management, and reproductive healthcare.

At the heart of this extraordinary event was Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, Organizing Chairperson, President of FOGSI, and Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IVF & Endoscopy Centre at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune. A visionary leader and a driving force in the field of gynecological endoscopy, Dr. Tandulwadkar’s commitment to excellence and education has transformed the way surgeons approach minimally invasive procedures. Her leadership ensured that this conference was not just another medical gathering but a dynamic platform for innovation, skill enhancement, and global collaboration. The meticulous planning and execution of the event were made possible by a passionate team, with Dr. Tandulwadkar at the helm, alongside Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar, and Dr. Ashish Kale.

Speaking about the overwhelming success of the conference, Dr. Tandulwadkar said, “This event is a reflection of our shared dedication to pushing the boundaries of gynecological surgery. To witness so many brilliant minds coming together, sharing knowledge, and refining skills is truly inspiring. As technology advances, so must we, and this conference is a stepping stone towards a future where minimally invasive surgery continues to change lives.”

Dr. Tandulwadkar informed that, “Nearly 38 live surgeries were demonstrated by National & International faculty. Surgeries happened in Galaxy Hospital & Symbiosis Medical College and were relayed at JW Marriott, Pune,  for all delegates.”

Dr. Puntambekar added, “The conference also featured a live cadaveric dissection, an experience that provided unparalleled insights into anatomical precision and surgical techniques from Symbiosis University.’

Dr. Ashish Kale informed, “ Dr. Kalyan Barmade from Latur got installed as the President of IAGE, and Dr. Sujal Munshi from Ahmednagar got installed as Secretory of IAGE for the year 2025-26”.

As the conference concludes, it leaves behind a legacy of learning, collaboration, and progress, reinforcing Pune’s status as a Centre of medical excellence. The impact of this gathering will continue to resonate as specialists apply their newly acquired knowledge to improve patient outcomes and redefine the future of gynecological surgery.

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INDIA: Delegates from across India assembled at the packed NSE Auditorium in BKC, Mumbai, on 27 November to witness a special event—“LiFE 2024: Conference on Bharatiya Perspective on Sustainability.” This uniquely themed Conference was organized by Govardhan Ecovillage (GEV), India’s prominent UNWTO-winning eco-tourism destination. Gauranga Das, Director of GEV, conceptualized and organized the conference.

During the recently concluded 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) at Baku, Azerbaijan, and the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, India reiterated its commitment to meeting climate change and UNSDGs. Over the past few years, India has established itself as a role model for other countries by setting and pursuing ambitious climate and sustainable development goals.

The ancient Bharatiya perspective is extremely relevant for sustainability and sustainable development in a modern context. Age-old Indian wisdom is fundamental in dealing sensibly with sensitive environments and ecosystems while balancing economic progress and development. A well-structured, targeted, and continuous effort at all levels can work miracles to overcome nagging environmental challenges globally. While on the one hand, India has a challenge to deal with its carbon footprint, on the other hand, it has an opportunity to showcase applications of its ancient perspective in the modern context to re-establish its position as the ‘Vishwa-Guru’ and lead the world for a better, safer and more sustainable future.

Two central themes of the Conference (1) Consciousness, Culture & Sustainability and (2) Leveraging Sustainability Economics echoed throughout the sessions by the expert speakers. The basic tenets of age-old Indian culture leading to ideas around ‘conscious consumption’, ‘cleanliness led wellness’, ‘culture of respect for natural resources’, ‘best from the waste’, ‘living in harmony with nature’, ‘use of recyclable products’, ‘optimized production-distribution-consumption-reuse chain’, ‘trusteeship approach’, and the like – which were the spotlights of the event.

Another key idea deliberated in the conference was how to effectively leverage modern technologies in a way complimentary to ancient Indian practices to enhance sustainability at scale – at the individual, family, social, national, and global levels. This will certainly optimize the use of resources and consumption, bring in efficiencies in product value chains, optimize distribution chains, and increase recyclability through responsible product development.

Enhanced focus on renewable energy and methods of adopting an energy-friendly lifestyle will also be key to our balanced progress, as we march ahead toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy in terms of overall GDP.

A structured approach to developing the Indian Knowledge System on sustainability, centered around Indian traditional roots, wisdom literature, scientific yet practical outlook, nature-friendly living, and sustainability embedded in rich cultural traditions, that becomes foundational to multi-faceted sustainability initiatives was proposed and well-appreciated. Delegates also expressed their whole-hearted commitment in one voice for a wide-spread education of Indian traditional systems and practices that collectively lead to the conservation of the environment and natural resources.

The event brought together Subject Matter Experts from the Indian administration, academia, industry, and social impact sectors, who mesmerized the audience with their deep knowledge and shared actionable insights on achieving sustainability through the integration of ancient Indian principles and modern technologies.

In addition to leading academicians from IIT, the esteemed panel of speakers included Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Hon. Governor of Maharashtra; Gauranga Das; Shri S Gurumurthy – well-known corporate & legal advisor.

The Hon. Governor emphasized that development and environmental preservation are two sides of the same coin. He stated that India’s accelerating progress must go hand in hand with the conservation of natural resources. Stressing the role of humanity as trustees of the planet’s resources, he urged that it is our collective responsibility to hand over a healthier, more sustainable Earth to future generations.

Gauranga Das spoke about an approach to sustainability rooted in Bharat’s traditional wisdom and culture, highlighting the concept of Ashta Lakshmi. He explained that Lakshmi encompasses far more than material wealth, extending to broader dimensions of prosperity. He seamlessly aligned this perspective with the conference theme, LiFE 2024: Bhartiya Perspective on Sustainability.

S Gurumurthy Ji outlined a four-pronged approach to advancing India’s journey towards sustainability. He called upon concerned individuals to unite in transforming development into a greener, more sustainable endeavor. He also reflected on India’s traditional way of life, which emphasizes harmony with nature and minimal resource consumption, contrasting it with the consumption patterns of the West.

Other speakers, including Prof. Varadraj Bapat, IIT Mumbai, SJMSOM; Prof. Ganti S Murthy, IIT Indore; Ar. Hiten Sethi, Founder, HSA;  Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, IIT, Mumbai.

The Conference was organized in association with Kotak School of Sustainability – IIT Kanpur, NIT – Warangal, and the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). National Stock Exchange (NSE) was the Venue Partner, and Nityo Infotech, Global IT Services & Solutions Company, was the Banquet Sponsor.

Toward the end of the Conference, Gauranga Das led the team of delegates to define a roadmap and create an executable plan to contribute meaningfully to the cause of sustainability and sustainable development.

Delegates from various walks of life, including policymakers, academicians, industry professionals, researchers, and corporations, and a large number of students were in attendance – highlighting the growing awareness about sustainability in today’s highly motivated young generation.

Govardhan Ecovillage is committed to playing its role in sustainability in the district of Palghar, Maharashtra. This Conference was one such initiative to address the pressing issues through constructive actions that create high social impact.

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1,83,610 malaria and dengue cases were reported in India until August 2024, according to the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). The growing threat of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue is no longer confined to the monsoon season, posing a year-round concern for public health, especially among children, who are the most vulnerable. With children being at higher risk due to their developing immune systems, ensuring their protection becomes an urgent priority. Thus, Goodknight collaborated with Maha Pedicon, organized by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, to highlight the role of pediatricians in raising awareness about preventive measures.

During the discussions on child health, senior pediatricians such as Dr. Nitin Shah, Dr. Vijay Yewale, Dr. Ganesh Kulkarni, and Dr. Surendranath, along with Dr. Reena Bibals, Global Head of R&D (Household Insecticides) at Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), participated in a panel to discuss the alarming rise in diseases like dengue and malaria and the importance of adopting safe and effective prevention strategies in households. The discussion was jointly moderated by Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, National President-Elect of IAP, and Dr. Samir Dalwai, Developmental Pediatrician & Senior Member of IAP. The panel discussed essential safety aspects of household insecticide products, including how to identify government-approved, legal, and safe options, as well as best practices for responsible usage to protect family health.

Speaking at the panel discussion, Reena Bibals, Global Head – R&D (Household Insecticides), Godrej Consumer Products Ltd, said,” By collaborating with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, our initiative has two key objectives. First, to raise awareness amongst households about the use of effective solutions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. As per a Goodknight survey report, 58% of Indians are very particular about the kind of mosquito repellents they use, we must make them aware of preventive solutions that are available in the market post undergoing due regulatory compliance“.

Reena Bibals further added, “Our second focus is to engage medical professionals to generate awareness of the regulatory compliance and safe use of mosquito repellent products from reliable brands that are available in the market. This will empower them to offer the best preventive care and guidance to their patients. As a category leader, Goodknight is committed to driving these efforts, fostering both better mosquito control solutions and greater awareness of the right preventive measures.”

Dr. Samir Dalwai, a prominent Developmental Pediatrician and Senior Member of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) said, “While it affects everyone, children remain the most vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases. At the same time, rising cases of mosquito-borne diseases also lead to an increased socio-economic burden on households. Hence, prevention is a basic yet vital aspect of tackling mosquito-borne diseases and improving the overall health quotient of the nation. A crucial defense mechanism is to utilize legal and medically approved prevention solutions. Prioritizing prevention and adopting approved solutions ensures that they have undergone rigorous testing, are certified as safe and effective, and allow us to protect ourselves without jeopardizing our well-being.”

The panel of pediatricians opined that preventing mosquito-borne diseases will involve personal protection, environmental control, and community efforts. Key solutions include using insect repellents, mosquito nets, and repellent products like vaporizers. Eliminating standing water to reduce breeding sites and applying larvicides are essential environmental measures. Installing window screens and participating in fumigation campaigns also help control mosquito populations. Public awareness campaigns and the use of certified, safe products ensure effective prevention, while biological controls like introducing natural predators further support long-term management. The panel emphasized that public-private partnerships between the government, institutions, and private sector companies will be essential to reduce the impact of mosquito-borne diseases across India.

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‘Towards Zero Preterm births in India’. The sentiment of ‘Born too soon’ was the heart of the focused scientific discussions.

The conference included scientific sessions, workshops, paper presentations, and keynotes by experts.

Chief Guest  Dr. Jaydeep Tank, President FOGSI, Guest of Honour Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, President-Elect Indian Academy of Paediatrics Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, President-Elect FOGSI, Dr. Aarti Nimkar, President POGS, Dr.Meenakshi Deshpande, Secretary POGS, Dr. Girija Wagh Organising Chairperson of the conference, Dr. Vaishali Chavan, Organising Secretary along with other dignitaries were present at the inaugural session.

Dr.Jaydeep Tank, President of FOGSI said one of the major problems with prematurity is the fact that the children have both long-term as well as short-term disabilities. Not all of them do. Neonatal care has now improved to an extent where a large majority don’t, but still, a significant number do have problems even later on in life. Of course, this is dependent on whether adequate neonatal care is available or not and that really is the sticking point. This is because neonatal care is highly specialized and is not easily available everywhere, attempts must be made both in the infrastructure space as well as the human resources to make sure that every neonate who needs it gets adequate neonatal care . Some of the things that we are doing for this, is promoting prevention and prediction of preterm labour , the introduction of high quality neonatal services in partnership with paediatricians and also the new concept of kangaroo mother care .

Talking about new technologies he added that there is a lot of potential in having big data, and, it means millions of data points being analyzed by artificial intelligence to further stratify the risk factors and identify which exactly are the preventive and predictive results.

Guest of Honour Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, President-Elect Indian Academy of Paediatrics preterm births remain one of the biggest challenges contributing to long lasting consequences. These can impact not just initial years but also life-term trajectory. This requires a robust partnership between obstetrician and paediatrician. Together we can form a circle of care for advance monitoring and treatment.

 Book on preterm labour written by Dr. Girija Wagh , Conference Souvenir edited by Dr. Anagha Pai Pairaiturkar was also released on the occasion. Professor Dr.Kishore Kumar Founder Cloud 9 Hospitals, Dr Chitra Prasad Clinical Geneticist, Dr Mark Evans, and Dr. Meenu Agarwal, renowned Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, were felicitated for their contribution to the field. Dr.Uma Wankhede was declared the winner of the reel-making competition.

Dr. Girija Wagh, Organising Chairman said that October being a month of observing preterm births this was the right time to organise the conference.  

Dr. Vaishali Chavan, Organising secretary proposed the vote of thanks.

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The two-day conference, scheduled for 3-4 November 2024, will be held at Crowne Plaza, Kingdom of Bahrain. This year’s conference is themed: “Leveraging Islamic Finance to Build a Sustainable, Efficient, and Resilient Halal Ecosystem for Muslim Economies”.

Considered one of the most significant gatherings in the Islamic finance industry, the conference this year will host Shari’ah scholars, policymakers, and decision-makers to discuss pressing matters in the Islamic finance industry globally. The conference will be supported by a variety of partners and sponsors, including Islamic banks and financial institutions, academic institutions, technology companies, and other support service providers and knowledge-sharing platforms.

H.E. Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman of AAOIFI Board of Trustees remarked on this occasion: “We are honored to once again host our annual conference in Bahrain. We eagerly anticipate engaging in discussions on vital issues and Islamic finance-based approaches and solutions that can be leveraged to build a sustainable, efficient, and resilient Halal ecosystem for Muslim economies. We extend our profound appreciation to the Central Bank of Bahrain and the Islamic Development Bank for their unwavering support to AAOIFI and its pivotal initiatives, encompassing this important conference. In sha Allah, we look forward to welcoming all AAOIFI stakeholders to Bahrain”.

The two-day conference will feature keynote addresses from distinguished dignitaries and policymakers, along with seven-panel discussion sessions. These discussions will explore how Islamic finance can build a sustainable Halal ecosystem, covering topics such as transitioning from Halal finance to a Halal economy, enhancing supply chains, and addressing governance and transparency in Islamic finance, among other relevant topics.

Khalid Al Hamad, Executive Director of Banking Supervision at the Central Bank of Bahrain, also commented on this occasion: “The Central Bank of Bahrain is pleased to support this conference, which underscores our ongoing commitment to the advancement of Islamic finance both locally and globally. This conference provides a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to examine the evolving dynamics of Islamic finance and its broader economic implications. It is essential that we continuously evaluate and refine our strategies to address the diverse needs of the stakeholders. We believe the insights gained from this conference will play a crucial role in shaping and improving economic and financial practices worldwide”.

Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of IsDB Institute, also commented on this occasion: “The Islamic Development Bank is committed to showcasing how Islamic finance can build a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient Halal ecosystem. Our focus is on leveraging innovative financial strategies and practices rooted in Islamic principles, rules, and values, as well as AAOIFI standards, to drive economic efficiency, financial stability, and long-term growth in Muslim economies. This conference provides a vital platform to address current economic, financial, and environmental challenges, showcasing our commitment to upholding the broader goals of Shari’ah”.

In conjunction with the conference, AAOIFI is also organizing the 2nd edition of Capacity Building Week, which will commence on 2 November 2024 and continue from 5-8 November 2024. This event is expected to draw over 200 participants from more than 30 countries, who will engage in over 20 concurrent workshops, facilitated by 20 AAOIFI trainers.

For registration and more information about the conference, please click this link: https://bit.ly/3Tx6ojI

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