CHANDIGARH,*11.12.2025*-The 8th National Conference of the Indian Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ISHICON 2025), themed *“Innovation Driven Transplant Immunology: Sharpening the Cutting Edge”, commenced today . Organised by the Department of Immunopathology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, the conference is being held from **December 11–13, 2025*.

The inaugural ceremony opened with the *Welcome Address by Conference Chair, Prof. (Dr) Biman Saikia, followed by the **Secretary’s Report by Dr Uma Kanga, the **Presidential Address by Prof. Narinder K. Mehra, and the **Vote of Thanks by Conference Secretary, Prof. Ritu Aggarwal*, who acknowledged the contributions of Joint Secretary Dr Gaurav Sharma, Treasurer Dr Mahendra Kumar, Conference Organising Committee, Scientific Committee, and partner organisations.

Expressing deep satisfaction at the enthusiastic participation, *Prof. Biman Saikia*, Conference Chair, stated:“ISHICON 2025 is more than a scientific meeting—it is a collective resolve to push the boundaries of transplant immunology. As India rapidly advances in transplantation science, our ability to innovate, collaborate, and translate research into patient-centred solutions will define the next decade. This platform brings together the best minds to sharpen that cutting edge.”

An inspiring keynote address by ISHI President *Prof. Narinder K. Mehra* on *“Evolution of Transplant Immunology in India”* set the tone for the scientific deliberations.

A major highlight of the day was the *Prof. Narinder Mehra Oration, delivered by **Prof. Alejandro Madrigal (UK), who spoke on advanced donor-selection strategies for stem cell transplantation. International experts including **Eric Spierings (Netherlands), Rob Liwski (Canada), and Raja Rajalingam (USA)*, along with leading national faculty, shared cutting-edge insights across the field.

A special lecture by*Dr Anil Kumar, Director, NOTTO*, emphasised the national importance of a coordinated organ and tissue transplant ecosystem. Young scientists also showcased innovative research through oral and poster presentations.

With *nearly 110 delegates*, Day 1 of ISHICON 2025 concluded on a high note, reflecting the conference’s strong momentum, robust scientific content, and collaborative spirit.