CHANDIGARH, 26.10.24-The landmark Global PGI Alumni Summit 2024, a tribute to camaraderie, knowledge exchange, and PGIMER’s lasting impact on healthcare and medical science, commenced with great fanfare and excitement at the Bhargava Auditorium, PGIMER, today.
Welcoming over *500 esteemed alumni* from around the world, the summit promises a weekend filled with engaging discussions, connections, and reflections on PGIMER’s legacy of excellence. The Summit commenced with a vibrant meet-and-greet session, as alumni reconnected with old colleagues and engaged with PGIMER’s nodal officers, filling the air with a palpable sense of excitement.
*Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER* and Chairman of the Summit, set the stage with a warm welcome, stating, “No person can truly outgrow his alma mater.Our institute is a testament to the colossal contributions of its founding fathers—without them, we wouldn't be here. The essence of their vision and dedication continues to shape our journey.” Highlighting the invaluable contributions of the institution's founders, Prof. Lal urged, "The light of knowledge must never be extinguished." Commemorating the legacy of excellence, the Director PGIMER affirmed, " If you integrate PGI's contribution to the society, in terms of producing the best students, in terms of producing the best teachers for other colleges and in terms of treating patients at a cost that will make others laugh, our net asset value, is ahead of any medical institute.”
Rereflecting on the formation of the PGIMER Alumni Association and its significance, *Prof. Yogesh Chawla, former PGIMER Director* and key member of the PGI Chandigarh Alumni Association (PCAAS), stated stated, "I feel honored that finally the Alumni Association did take off today, being the first one." He emphasized the need for a robust alumni network, inspired by his visit to CMC Vellore in 2013 where he learned about their successful alumni contributions.Prof. Chawla urged alumni to support PGI and advocated for collective action, asserting, "It is time that we wake up, ask our alumni to help us at least with their networking."Reflecting on the mission and values of PGI, Prof. Chawla concluded, "PGI has gone much beyond what was enshrined in the founding mission statement," attributing this to the environment created by its founding fathers, which emphasized self-discipline, truthfulness, and a commitment to doing things rightly.
Distinguished alumni, including *Prof. Arvind Rajwanshi, Prof. G.D. Puri, and Prof. Amit Chakraborty,* chaired the featured sessions.
*Lt. Gen. Daljit Singh, AVSM, VSM, DGAFMS* , in the summit's first featured session focusing on “AFMS, The Indian Nation, and Us”, reflected on the AFMS's comprehensive healthcare and its significant impact during wartime and peacetime operations, emphasizing the importance of remembering brave hearts as a nation.In an address brimming with emotion, Lt. Gen. Daljit Singh said, “Every Indian life matters.” He encouraged the audience to honor fallen soldiers, urging, “Ek diya shaheed ke naam,” as they celebrate Diwali.
Exploring the intriguing theme of “Science & Spirituality,” in his session. *Dr. S. Swaminathan* , a distinguished professor at IISc and adjunct faculty at the Mayo Clinic, centred his insightful discourse on the necessity of integrating holistic practices into modern medicine. “While science offers us tools for diagnosis and treatment, spirituality provides the essential framework for understanding our patients’ experiences,” he noted, effectively bridging the gap between these two critical fields.
*Dr. Vijay Mahajan, Chief Medical Director* *at Tagore Hospital & Heart Centre, Jalandhar** , enlightened with “How to Manage Your Own Stress,” offering stress management techniques tailored for healthcare professionals. Highlighting the stressors faced by medical professionals in his address, Dr. Mahajan defined stress as "a gap between expectations and reality," noting its detrimental effects, including a shorter lifespan for doctors. He identified challenges such as high expectations and patient violence, leading to mental health issues and substance abuse. Emphasizing balance, Dr. Mahajan urged, "Avoid greed, maintain ethical practices," and advocated for self-care through exercise and hobbies. He concluded by encouraging a fulfilling lifestyle that includes quality family time and gardening.
The day concluded with a high-tea session, fostering deeper connections and discussions on potential collaborations.
Attendees expressed enthusiasm for the insights and bonds formed, setting a promising tone for the weekend.
The Global PGI Alumni Summit will continue through October 27, featuring a carefully curated program, including departmental visits, nostalgic events, cultural programs, and a gala dinner. It will provide a perfect blend of professional development, recreation, and nostalgia, making it a truly unforgettable occasion.
Photo- Prof Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER felicitating Prof. Y. K. Chawla
Photo_ Dr. S. Swaminathan being felicitated by Prof Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER along with, (left to right,) Prof. Y. K. Chawla, Prof. Arvind Rajvanshi, Prof. Amit Chakraborty, Prof. G D Puri