Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, DD, Reinforcing its commitment to medical excellence and innovation, AIIMS Jammu organised a high-impact Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme titled “Genetics in Obstetrics & Pediatrics: Advances in Prenatal Genetics and Rare Diseases in Children” on 19th April 2025. The event was organized by the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and the Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS Jammu, in collaboration with the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), the Jammu Obstetrics and Gynecology Society (JOGS)—led by Dr. R.C. Sharma (President) and Dr. Manjusha Bajaj (Secretary)—and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Jammu Chapter.
The CME brought together leading experts to discuss the latest advancements in genetic medicine. Dr. Gitanjali Sachdeva, Scientist-G and Director at ICMR-NIRRCH, Mumbai, was the Chief Guest and opened the discussions with insights into “Advances in Molecular Genetics”, showcasing the growing impact of molecular genetics in prenatal diagnostics. Following her session, Dr. Madhulika Kabra, Ex-Professor and Head of the Department of Pediatrics and former Head of the Division of Genetics at AIIMS New Delhi, joined virtually to present on the “Application of Genomics in Pediatric Practice, Prenatal Diagnosis & Genetic Counseling”, shedding light on the role of genomic medicine in improving pediatric care and prenatal diagnosis. Dr. Shailesh Pande, Scientist E at ICMR-NIRRCH, Mumbai, concluded the speaker sessions with a comprehensive talk on “Genetic Testing & Counseling in Clinical Practice,” and discussed the critical role of genetics in the evaluation of male and female infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and bad obstetrics history.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, who marked the occasion with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and Saraswati Vandana. In his keynote address, Dr. Gupta stressed the importance of integrating prenatal genetic diagnostics and pediatric care, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and intervention to better manage genetic disorders.
Over 50 faculty members and residents from various prestigious medical institutions participated in the CME, engaging actively in case-based discussions and knowledge-sharing interactions. The programme served as a vital platform for enhancing understanding of genetic diagnostics and prenatal testing techniques, equipping clinicians to better manage complex genetic disorders with informed, compassionate care.
Through this academic initiative, AIIMS Jammu once again reaffirmed its position at the forefront of medical education and genetic healthcare innovation in Jammu & Kashmir, fostering a brighter and healthier future for generations to come.DD
