CHANDIGARH,07.07.2025-“PGI Chandigarh is truly a national treasure — a hub where the brightest minds converge to push the boundaries of medical science. Over the past two years alone, PGI has secured 74 grants, with nearly half dedicated to developing new interventions and technologies. This is a testament to PGI’s relentless pursuit of excellence and its vital role in India’s innovation ecosystem,” underscored Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary to Government of India, Department of Health Research and Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research while addressing as the Chief Guest at the momentous 62nd Institute Foundation Day celebrations of PGIMER.

Director General, ICMR lauded PGI’s crucial role in clinical trials and translational research during his keynote address themed on ‘Creating more physicians scientists and innovators in leading medical institutes,’ as he stated, “PGI’s position as one of the primary institutes conducting phase one clinical trials outside industry showcases our capacity to bring cutting-edge therapies from bench to bedside. This is essential for making India a global leader in medical research and development.”

Highlighting the importance of integrating research with clinical practice, Dr. Bahl said, “The future of Indian healthcare rests on our ability to develop new interventions and diagnostic tools. ICMR’s focus on evidence-based research, combined with its commitment to training physician scientists, is essential for India’s journey toward self-reliance in medical technology.”

Dr. Bahl emphasized the importance of Engineer-Doctor-industry partnership to create science and research into innovation to reach out patients as he highlighted, “ICMR’s strategic collaborations with IITs, AIIMS, and other premier institutions exemplify our collective commitment to bridging medicine and technology. The pioneering devices developed here, like the infrared hematoma detector, Mobi-lab etc. have already garnered international attention, even impressing global leaders like Bill Gates. It’s a proud moment for India and a validation of our leadership in healthcare innovation.”

Sharing ICMR’s vision for Viksit Bharat, Dr Bahl underpinned, “Our goal is to support Indian scientists and entrepreneurs in creating first-in-the-world technologies. The recent challenge grants and patent support programs of ICMR are designed to catalyse this spirit of innovation, ensuring India remains at the forefront of medical breakthroughs.”

With Dr. Digambar Behera, Professor Emeritus at PGIMER and President of the National Academy of Medical Sciences, New Delhi gracing as the Guest of Honour, the celebrations marking 62^nd Institute Foundation Day, held at NINE Auditorium, were well attended by former directors, deans & heads including Prof. Yogesh Chawla, key functionaries Prof. R.K.Ratho, Dean (Academics), Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research) Sh.Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director Administration, Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent cum Head Dept. of Hospital Administration, Sh. Rawinder Singh, Financial Advisor, Heads of the Departments, senior faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and others from PGIMER fraternity.

Earlier, at the outset, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, reflected on the foundational ethos, paying tribute to the sacrifices of PGI’s founders and early leaders. He acknowledged that their dedication laid a resilient foundation that continues to inspire present and future generations.

Prof. Lal emphasized, “To remain on the pedestal we have achieved, we must continue to uphold the same fierce commitment and remorseless motivation as our founding fathers.”

Acknowledging the PGIMER team’s diligence and hard work amidst an exponentially growing patient burden, Prof. Lal shared “We make up for infrastructure gaps through relentless passion,” demonstrating that dedication often outweighs resource limitations. He drew a parallel with the journey of the BrahMos missile—initially faltering over 2,700 attempts but ultimately achieving precision through perseverance.”

Thirty one PGIMER employees were honored by the esteemed Chief Guest on the occasion, Chief Guest Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Guest of Honour Dr Digambar Behera, along with Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, Prof. R.K.Ratho. Dean (Academics) and Prof. Sanjay Jain , Dean (Research) for their outstanding service and were presented appreciation certificates along with mementoes

Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research), PGIMER proposed the vote of thanks to mark the formal closure of the event.