Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 25: Organized by the Department of Paediatrics, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu in collaboration with the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) Jammu branch, the 27th National Conference of Paediatric Hematology-Oncology (PHOCON-2024) concluded last evening.
Focused on advancements in paediatric hematology and oncology, the conference attracted over 600 national and international experts to the Convention Centre, Jammu, from November 22 to 24. The event organized under the aegis of the Paediatric Hematology-Oncology Chapter of IAP commenced on November 22 with six enriching pre-conference workshops. These workshops provided hands-on training and addressed critical aspects of pediatric hematology and oncology.
The grand inauguration of PHOCON-2024 was graced by Dr Neelam Mohan, IAP president-elect for 2025, as the chief guest, and Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Principal GMC Jammu, as the guest of honour.
The inaugural ceremony began with a soulful Saraswati Vandana performed by cancer survivor children, which added a heartwarming touch to the proceedings. Dr G S Saini, organizing chairperson, delivered welcome address.
Dr Shripad Banavali, chairman of the PHO chapter, inspired postgraduate students and young pediatricians to pursue pediatric hematology-oncology as a super-specialization. The PHO Chapter’s annual report was presented by general secretary Dr Manas Kalra.
During the event, Lifetime Achievement awards were presented to Dr Archana Kumar and Dr L Appa for their significant contributions to pediatric hematology-oncology, and Shobha Tuli (president of Thalassemia India) and Poonam Bagai (president of CANKIDS) for their service towards thalassemia and pediatric cancer patients.
The IAP J&K Branch also honoured Dr Suraj Gupte, Dr Ashok Gupta, Dr Subhash Singh Slathia, Dr N K Pargal and Dr Muzaffar Jan for their invaluable contributions to paediatrics.
During the inaugural ceremony, dignitaries also released the Abstract Book, PHO Newsletter, and the ’12 Mahiney 12 Posters’ initiative, marking significant milestones in knowledge dissemination and public awareness.
On the final day, a Cyclothon was organized to raise awareness about childhood cancers and blood disorders. The conference concluded with vote of thanks presented by Dr Sanjeev K Digra, chief organizing secretary.
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