CHANDIGARH, 22.03.26-“With over 15,000 OPD patients annually, 3,000 endoscopic procedures, and more than 1,000 admissions, paediatric gastroenterology reflects both growing need and responsibility,” said Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER, setting a compelling context for the scale, urgency, and impact of the specialty at the institute.

It was against this backdrop of expanding clinical demand and growing academic responsibility that Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER inaugurated the “Monothematic Conference on Paediatric Cholestasis & 4th Prof. Saroj Mehta Memorial Oration (22nd–23rd March 2026)” at Lecture Theatre-1, PGIMER, bringing together leading experts from across India and abroad to deliberate on critical challenges in paediatric cholestatic liver diseases.

The inaugural session was graced by eminent dignitaries including Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics), Prof. Nirmala D, Paediatric Gastroenterology, Institute of Child Health & Hospital for Children, Chennai, Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, PGIMER and Prof. Surinder Rana, Department of Gastroenterology, PGIMER, and

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Sadhna Lal underscored the department’s guiding philosophy, stating, “Patient First remains our core principle—every clinical and academic effort revolves around the child.” Paying a heartfelt tribute to Prof. Saroj Mehta, she said, “Her legacy continues to inspire generations with values of compassion, clinical excellence, and integrity.”

Highlighting the academic vision of the programme, Prof. Lal noted that the conference has been thoughtfully structured to address biliary atresia, a significant unresolved challenge in India, followed by comprehensive deliberations on other types of paediatric cholestasis, with the aim of strengthening expertise and expanding access to specialised care across the country.

Acknowledging the team behind the service, Prof. Sadhna Lal described PGIMER Junior & Senior residents as “the backbone of the department,” recognising their relentless contribution in sustaining high-quality patient care.

Emphasising capacity building, Prof. Lal added, “It is our mandate to train and disseminate knowledge so that every corner of the country has access to skilled paediatric gastroenterologists & hepatologists,” while expressing pride in alumni who are now leading services nationwide.

“It is our duty as Paediatric hepatologists & gastroenterologists to be mindful that we are dealing with children. We need to not only treat them but ensure these kids with chronic diseases are integrated into society and have a good quality of life. The responsibility of Paediatricians is immense: only they can ensure that the nation is not burdened with an unhealthy adult population!

Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Prof. R.K. Ratho lauded the dedication and passion driving the specialty forward. “Dedication transforms work into passion. When clinicians go beyond routine hours for patient care, it reflects true commitment,” he remarked, appreciating the sustained efforts of the team.

Prof. Ratho emphasised the critical importance of early diagnosis and collaboration. “Timely recognition of conditions like biliary atresia and cholestasis is crucial. Delays in referral and diagnosis remain challenges—platforms like this enable shared learning and improved outcomes.”

Reflecting on the human dimension of care, Prof. Ratho added, “Children are not just patients—they are our ambassadors of hope. Their recovery and well-being define the success of our efforts.” He also commended the department for its patient-centric approach and for consistently organising focused academic forums that encourage meaningful dialogue and innovation.

A deeply moving highlight of the event was the felicitation of young patients representing successful clinical journeys, reflecting resilience, courage, and the impact of advanced medical care:

• Miss N (6 years) – Biliary Atresia, post successful liver transplant
• Miss A (7 years) – Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), doing well under specialized care
• Miss A A (9 years) – Biliary Atresia, post successful Kasai portoenterostomy, operated at 90 days of age
• Master V (1.5 years) – Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC-II), post successful liver transplant
• Master S N (4 years) – Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC-IV), doing well under specialised care

These children were honoured as symbols of hope and successful outcomes, bringing a powerful human dimension to the scientific deliberations and underscoring the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and sustained follow-up.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Surinder Rana, acknowledging the contributions of faculty, delegates, and organisers in making the event possible.

The two-day scientific programme focuses on “Improving Outcomes of Biliary Atresia” on Day 1, covering etiopathogenesis, early diagnosis, surgical techniques such as Kasai porto-enterostomy, and long-term outcomes. Day 2 expands into non-biliary atresia paediatric cholestasis, including genetic and metabolic liver disorders, PFIC, mitochondrial hepatopathies, and emerging therapies.

Featuring state-of-the-art lectures, panel discussions, and case-based learning, the conference aims to foster collaboration, enhance clinical understanding, and strengthen national capacity in managing paediatric liver diseases.

The event stands as a strong reflection of PGIMER’s commitment to clinical excellence, academic leadership, and compassionate care—where every child’s journey inspires progress and purpose.