CHANDIGARH, 10.01.26-The Department of Dietetics and Hospital Administration, PGIMER, Chandigarh conducted a workshop, in observance of Indian Dietetics Day which is celebrated every year on 10th January. The workshop was in sync with the theme for Dietetics day 2026 ,i.e. “Control of Obesity for Healthier India – An Action Call from Nutrition Science Professionals”. Abiding by the theme, this workshop aimed to acquire hands- on information about causes and risks of obesity and learn evidence based strategies for weight management.

Prof. Sanjay Jain (Dean Research, PGIMER) inaugurated the program as chief guest and emphasized that moderation is the key to a successful compliance of a diet and maintenance of a healthy body. Prof. Vipin Koushal (Medical Superintendent and Head, Dept. of Hospital Administration, PGIMER) was guest of honour for the day and vouched for ‘Vocal for Local’ approach to food choices. Amongst other dignitaries, Professor Ashok Kumar ,AMS, Dept. of Hospital Administration, PGIMER was also present.

Conforming to the central idea, Dr. Nancy Sahni, Chief Dietician and Head , Department of Dietetics along with other team members including Mr. BN Behra, senior dietician, concentrated to spread awareness to the faculty, allied health workers as well as general public about the necessary changes one needs to follow to prevent and reverse obesity. Dr. Nancy Sahni, in her talk, disseminated knowledge about the dietary approaches to control obesity where she focused on behavioral dietary changes, conscious eating patterns in sync with circadian rhythms, and taught about various practical dietary patterns which may be followed for a long term weight management.

Other eminent and highly experienced speakers Dr. Rajesh Gupta (Prof. and Head, Dept. of Surgical Gastroenterology, PGI) and Dr. Sanjay Bhadada (Prof. and head, Dept. of Endocrinology, PGI) delivered lectures briefing the audience about surgical approaches in the treatment of obesity as well as the roles of lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy, and its link with increasing risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. An entertaining skit was also presented by dietetics inters giving out the message of the theme of the event . Approximately 250 participants attended the workshop.