The historic 100th national conference of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), NATCON 2025, wrapped up its two-day session in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The event set a remarkable precedent by bringing together a massive gathering of medical professionals to deliberate on the future of healthcare in India.
Record-Breaking Participation and Core Themes
The conference, a landmark centennial edition, witnessed unprecedented participation. Over 5,000 doctors from across India and abroad converged in Ahmedabad, making it one of the largest medical assemblies in recent times. The intellectual fervor was matched by the submission of more than 500 medical paper abstracts and presentations, showcasing a wealth of research and innovation.
Dr. Mehul Shah, President of IMA Gujarat and a key member of the conference secretariat, highlighted the scale and significance of the event. The conference agenda was meticulously crafted to address both contemporary challenges and future directions in medicine. Key discussion topics included:
- Vector-borne diseases and public health strategies
- Managing the dual epidemic of diabetes and obesity
- Advances in cardiac care
- Fostering a startup ecosystem in healthcare
- Respiratory illnesses and post-pandemic management
- Standards and processes for hospital certification
Bridging Technology and Tradition in Medicine
A central theme that resonated throughout NATCON 2025 was the integration of cutting-edge technology with the enduring wisdom of medical practice. Organizers emphasized that the future lies in this powerful confluence.
On the inaugural day, the stage was set by renowned keynote speakers including Dr. Ramakant Panda, Dr. B Bhaskara Rao, Dr. Shashank Joshi, Dr. Rakesh Shah, and Dr. Aseem Shukla. They delved into advanced medical practices within their specialties, consistently advocating for evidence-based approaches enhanced by modern technology.
An organizer from IMA-GSB succinctly captured the ethos, stating, "Today, artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI-ML) are revolutionising all fields, and medicine is no exception. Doctors need to continuously update themselves in the evolving technology while ensuring the ethos of the profession." This focus on AI in healthcare underscored the conference's forward-looking vision.
Honoring Legacy and Promoting Public Wellness
In a heartfelt tribute to service and experience, the second day of NATCON 2025 was marked by a special felicitation ceremony. One hundred doctors aged 75 years and above from across Gujarat were honored for their lifelong dedication to the medical field and society.
Aligning with the conference's mission of public health advocacy, a significant literary contribution was launched. Dignitaries unveiled a special book featuring detailed articles by 100 eminent doctors. This compilation focuses on the overall well-being of citizens and provides easy-to-follow, practical steps for better health, aiming to translate expert knowledge into public action.
The successful conclusion of IMA NATCON 2025 in Ahmedabad not only celebrated a century of medical congregation but also firmly charted a course for the future. It highlighted the imperative for the medical community to embrace innovation, uphold ethical practice, and prioritize accessible public health guidance, thereby strengthening India's healthcare landscape.
