The Department of Endocrine Surgery SGPGI and its Breast Health Programin association with the Association of 41 Club of India,came together for a Breast Cancer AwarenessInitiative‘WAVE 2026, on 4th October 2026, bringing together citizens, healthcare professionals, families and the community to walk and interact with Breast Cancer Conquerors to promote greater awareness about breast health, early detection of breast cancer and timely treatment.

This initiative featured a Breast Cancer Awareness Walkathon, a Vintage Car Rally, Super-PINK-Biker of Lucknow “Ride for breast cancer awareness” and a special Breast Cancer Conquerors Felicitation session, creating a platform that combined public participation with an important health-awareness message. Numerous social organisations, professional bodies and educational institutions of Lucknowcollaborated to bring together a galaxy of eminent citizens, professionals, people from varied backgrounds and students together to walk for a noble cause.

The Breast Cancer walkathon was flagged off by Shri Alok Kumar III, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Industries along with Shri Arvind Kumar, IAS (retired), Chairman UPERC, where more than 700 citizens of Lucknow walked the streets of Gomti banks to bring to attention the important social message of breast awareness. Later, the Vintage Car Rally and the Super-PINK-Biker of Lucknow ride were flagged off by Hon. Mr. JusticeShekhar B Saraf, and Hon. Mr. Justice Karunesh Singh Pawar of the Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court, which added a distinctive public and community dimension to the initiative, helping carry the message of breast cancer awareness across different sections of society. Participants representing the who’s who of the Lucknow society, and the general public with a large representation of the youth, students from prominent schools and colleges, and professionals were seen enjoying the proceedings, in the cool morning sun on this October Sunday.

A key highlight of the programme was the Breast Cancer Conquerors Felicitation, which recognised individuals who have faced breast cancer and emerged victorious from their treatment journeys. Their courage, resilience and determination were acknowledged as an important source of inspiration for the community and for others navigating similar experiences, which the conquerors shared during the meet.

Organisers- Mr Rajnish Sethi, Area chairman, Area-9 of the 41 clubs of India, and Mr Rajesh Luthra, national vice president of the club introduced the social and health educational initiatives of the club. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Gaurav Agarwal, convener of the SGPGI Breast Health Program stated the goal of the event, which was focused on encouraging greater awareness of breast cancer and reinforcing the importance of being attentive to breast health, carrying out breast self-examination by all women regularly, undertaking appropriate screening and seeking professional medical advice timely, when required. The strong participation and public engagement reflected the importance of taking conversations around breast cancer awareness beyond clinical settings and into the wider community.

The organisers stated that PINK WAVE 2026 represents a broader commitment towards creating sustained awareness around breast cancer and encouraging a culture of informed and proactive healthcare. The initiative also sought to recognise the strength of breast cancer conquerors and provide greater visibility to their journeys.The programme concluded with a renewed call for greater community awareness, responsible health-seeking behaviour and continued conversations around breast cancer prevention, early detection, screening and timely medical care.

The Department of Pediatric Surgical Super Specialties, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, has achieved a significant milestone in pediatric minimally invasive and robotic surgery by successfully performing robotic liver resections in two infants with hepatoblastoma, both weighing less than 6 kg.

These are the first robotic liver resections performed in infants in India and among the first few robotic liver resections reported in children anywhere in the country. This achievement represents an important advancement in the application of robotic technology to complex hepatobiliary surgery in very young and low-weight children.

Two Complex Robotic Liver Resections in Infants

The first patient was a 7-month-old boy weighing approximately 5 kg, diagnosed with hepatoblastoma involving the left lobe of the liver. Following preoperative chemotherapy, he successfully underwent a robotic left lateral sectionectomy at SGPGIMS on 5 September 2026.

The second patient was a 7-month-old girl weighing approximately 6 kg, diagnosed with hepatoblastoma involving the left lobe of the liver. Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy, she underwent a robotic left hepatectomy at SGPGIMS on 3 October 2026.

Thus, both patients were infants weighing less than 6 kg at the time of surgery, making these procedures particularly challenging and significant from a technical standpoint.

Both children had a satisfactory postoperative recovery and are presently doing well while continuing their planned adjuvant chemotherapy.

Advancing the Boundaries of Pediatric Robotic Surgery

Liver resection in infants is among the most technically demanding procedures in pediatric surgery. The challenges are further amplified by the extremely small abdominal working space, delicate anatomy, small-calibre blood vessels and bile ducts, and the need for precise control of bleeding while preserving adequate liver function.

Performing these complex liver resections robotically in infants weighing less than 6 kg demonstrates the expanding potential of robotic surgery in very young and low-weight children.

The achievement also reflects the continued evolution of advanced minimally invasive and robotic pediatric surgery at SGPGIMS, where robotic surgery is being increasingly utilized for complex gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, urological and thoracic procedures in children.

These cases mark another important step in the journey of SGPGIMS towards establishing itself as a leading centre for advanced pediatric minimally invasive and robotic surgery, demonstrating that complex robotic procedures can be undertaken safely even in infants of very low body weight.

The successful management of these children was made possible through close collaboration between the pediatric surgical, pediatric anaesthesia, pediatric gastroenterology, radiodiagnosis and multidisciplinary support teams at SGPGIMS.

A Milestone for Pediatric Surgery in India

The successful robotic liver resections in these two infants represent not only an achievement for SGPGIMS but also a significant milestone in the advancement of pediatric robotic surgery in India.

With the increasing availability of advanced robotic technology and the development of specialized expertise, robotic surgery is progressively moving beyond conventional procedures towards increasingly complex operations in smaller and younger children.

SGPGIMS remains committed to bringing these technological advances to the care of children and to further advancing the frontiers of safe, precise and minimally invasive pediatric surgery.

Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) observed the birth anniversaries of two great leaders, with due reverence today at the Central Library Complex, SGPGI. The commemorative event at SGPGIMS began at 10:30 AM with lamp lighting and floral tributes to the portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri by Prof. Gaurav Agarwal, Officiating Director, SGPGI, Prof. R. Harsvardhan, Medical Superintendent, SGPGI

Shri Prakash Singh, Joint Director Administration SGPGIMS and Dr. Radha K, Principal, College of Nursing, SGPGIMS.

The event then commenced further as Dr. Gaurav Agarwal highlighted the importance of remembering and practicing the core values of Mahatma Gandhi, especially simplicity, discipline, non-violence and self-reliance. These values should guide both individual conduct and institutional practices. Prof. R. Harsvardhan, Medical Superintendent, SGPGIMS emphasized the need to understand Mahatma Gandhi, not just as a historical figure but as a man whose life and philosophy should be studied and internalized. He added that healthcare providers, in particular, should seek ways to incorporate Gandhiji’s principles into patient care and servic delivery.

The event concluded with a collective reaffirmation of the values of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, emphasizing that their timeless ideals continue to guide the nation towards harmony, self-reliance, and service. The gathering included faculty, residents, staff and students.

"There is no substitute for blood; human beings are its only source. Blood donation is therefore a great act of giving."

Department of Transfusion Medicine National observed Voluntary Blood Donation Day on 1 October 2026 with utmost joy. The theme of this year was "One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives." As part of the observance, various activities were organized, which included a walkathon, rangoli competition and poster competition on 30 September 2026.

The walkathon was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Devendra Gupta, Chief Medical Superintendent of the Institute, and Shri Ravindra Kumar, IAS, Director, Uttar Pradesh State Blood Transfusion Council, by releasing balloons and flagging off the walkathon. Students of the Institute enthusiastically participated in the poster and rangoli competitions.

On the evening of 30 September, a nukkad natak (street play) was presented at different locations within the Institute to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation.

As part of the series of events marking National Voluntary Blood Donation Day, a major programme was held in the morning on 1 October 2026 at the C. V. Raman Auditorium, Library Complex, SGPGIMS, Lucknow. The programme, chaired by the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Gaurav Agarwal, officiating Director, SGPGIMS, was organised around the theme "Felicitating Voluntary Organisations, Blood Donors and Blood Centres, and Taking the Pledge."

Nine blood centres from different districts of Uttar Pradesh, ten blood donation camp organisers and twenty voluntary blood donors were honoured and felicitated. Blood donation organisers, blood centres and donors were recognised, while winners of the poster and slogan competitions were awarded prizes. Representatives of organisations and blood donors shared their experiences, and those present took a pledge to donate blood and create awareness among the public,

Shri Ravindra Kumar, Director, Uttar Pradesh State Blood Transfusion Council, welcomed the participants, appealed for greater voluntary blood donation and outlined the status of blood safety initiatives in the state. Dr. Sanjay Solanki, Joint Director, Uttar Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, Lucknow, explained the importance of blood donation. Dr. Priti Elhence, Professor and Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, SGPGIMS, Lucknow, also shared her views.

In his address, the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Gaurav Agarwal expressed satisfaction with the growth of voluntary blood donation in the state and encouraged people to donate blood. He also referred to Uttar SGPGIMS, Lucknow | National Voluntary Blood Donation Day 2026.

Pradesh's target of collecting approximately 24 lakh units of blood in the next financial year and urged the public to contribute to voluntary blood donation.

The program was attended by Dr Rakesh Rai (Uttar Pradesh SBTC), Shri Prakash Singh, Joint Director (Administration), Prof. (Dr.) Anupam Verma, Prof. (Dr.) Atul Sonkar, Dr. Bharat Singh, Dr. P Rani, Dr. Arushi Sahni, Dr. Vasundhara Singh, Dr. Priyanka Nagarth, and resident doctors from the Department of Transfusion Medicine.

The Department of Pediatric Surgical Superspecialities, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), achieved significant national recognition at IAPSCON 2026 held in Bengaluru,from 24^th to 27^th September with its faculty members and residents receiving multiple prestigious honours for leadership, research, clinical innovation and academic excellence in pediatric surgery.

Among the major highlights of the conference, Prof. Basant Kumar, Professor and Head of the Department, was conferred the “National Leadership Award 2026 in Paediatric Surgery”, recognising his contribution to the specialty and his leadership in pediatric surgical care, academics, teaching and research.

Prof. AnkurMandeliaadded further distinction to the department by winning two first prizes for two research papers presented during the scientific sessions. His studies focused on nephropathy following porto-systemic shunt surgery in children with extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and the utility and safety of intraoperative enteroscopy in children.

Residents Excel at the National Level

Among the residents, Dr (Lt Col) Rahul Goyal received one of the conference’s prestigious research honours, the “UC Chakraborty Gold Medal for Best Research Paper 2026.”His research evaluated the role of splenic shear-wave elastography in predicting the severity of varices and portal pressure in children with extrahepatic portal vein obstruction.

Dr ShuchiVarshney, MCh Resident, received a first prize for her study presenting the department’s 14-year experience with extragonadal germ cell tumors in children.

Dr Anand Kumar Maurya, MCh Resident, was awarded a first prizefor his research on the varied presentations and surgical management of rectal and hindgut duplications in infants.

Dr Pooja Prajapati, MCh Resident, added two second prizes to the department’s tally. Her first study evaluated novel biomarkers and liver shear-wave elastography for non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis in biliary atresia. Her second study focused on the surgical outcomes of solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm of the pancreas, a rare pancreatic tumor seen in children and adolescents.

The award-winning research represented a broad spectrum of pediatric surgical practice, including portal hypertension, hepatobiliary disorders, pancreatic tumors, congenital gastrointestinal anomalies and childhood cancers. The recognition reflects the department’s continued emphasis on integrating clinical care with meaningful research and innovation.

Director, SGPGIMS, Padmashri Prof. R. K. Dhiman, congratulated all the awardees—including faculty, researchers and residents—for their achievements. He acknowledged the collective efforts of the entire team in fostering a strong culture of excellent patient care, scientific research and resident training.

The Department of Pediatric Surgical Superspecialities, SGPGIMS continues to be at the forefront of clinical care, research and innovation aimed at improving outcomes for children requiring surgical treatment. The department remains committed to translating research findings and advances in surgical technology into safer, more effective and high-quality care for pediatric patients.

 The national recognition received at IAPSCON 2026 further highlights institute’s continuing contribution to pediatric surgical research, education, innovation and specialized clinical care.

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with the World Heart Federation highlighting the enormous global burden of cardiovascular disease and the importance of prevention and timely action, especially in Indians.  SGPGI cardiologists urge people to recognise hidden warning signs, protect their hearts and make every heartbeat count.

On occasion of World Heart Day week celebrations, the Department of Cardiology, SGPGI, joined the global campaign “Don’t Miss a Beat”, urging people to recognise the often subtle or easily overlooked warning signs of cardiovascular disease and take timely action.  In a walkathon organized on this occasion on 23^rd September, with more than 100 attendees, including faculty members Prof Aditya Kapoor, Prof Satyendra Tewari, Prof Naveen Garg, Prof Roopali Khanna, Dr Ankit Sahu, Dr Harshit Khare, Dr Arshad Nazir and Dr Shahnawaz Ansari, the message was simple but powerful: heart disease does not always arrive with a dramatic warning. Breathlessness, unusual fatigue, chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness or reduced exercise tolerance may sometimes be overlooked or attributed to age, stress or lack of fitness. The 2026 campaign encourages people to recognise such signals, seek timely medical advice and not ignore opportunities for prevention.  The initiative also encourages people to undertake 20 minutes of movement every day during September. Simply incorporating more movement into the daily routine can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

“Every beat is a reminder to take care of own heart”

Director SGPGI, Padmashree Professor RK Dhiman said  that heart health is not just a medical responsibility—it is a community responsibility.He congratulated the Department of Cardiology for organising this Walkathon on World Heart Day and taking the message of ‘Don’t Miss the Beat’ to the public.

He further added that the initiative reminds us that a healthy heart begins with healthy everyday choices—regular physical activity, a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and managing stress.  Every step we take today is a step towards a healthier heart tomorrow. Prof Dhiman reiterated that SGPGI remains committed to promoting awareness, prevention and timely care for cardiovascular disease.

Prof. Aditya Kapoor, Head, Department of Cardiology, SGPGIMS, said, “‘Don’t Miss a Beat’ is much more than a slogan. It reminds us to listen to our bodies and not dismiss warning symptoms. Heart health begins long before a heart attack—with regular physical activity, healthy food, control of blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, and complete avoidance of tobacco.”

Prof. Satyendra Tewari, Department of Cardiology, SGPGIMS, and President Elect CSI said, “The heart is remarkably responsive to the way we live. Regular physical activity and lifestyle modification, even when started with small achievable steps, can make a meaningful difference to cardiovascular health. Keep moving and keep the beat.”

Prof. Naveen Garg emphasised the importance of recognising symptoms early: Don’t Miss a Beat reminds us that early recognition and timely evaluation can sometimes make the difference between prevention and an emergency.”

Female hearts need attention too: Prof. Roopali Khanna said, “ Women may overlook or present with heart symptoms differently, and these warning signs should not be dismissed. Heart health in women deserves the same attention to prevention, early recognition and timely care as in men. She added that it is very important to establish a healthy connect with our own hearts, and make sure that we are fuelling, nourishing and nurturing our hearts to the fullest. 

Protect young hearts: Prof. Ankit Sahu highlighted that cardiovascular disease is not exclusively a disease of old age and healthy habits need to be built early, right from childhood—Risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, tobacco exposure, unhealthy diets, hypertension, diabetes and abnormal cholesterol are increasingly relevant to younger populations as well.

From Awareness to Action:The Department of Cardiology emphasised that World Heart Day should not be limited to a single day of awareness. It should serve as a reminder to convert knowledge into everyday action—walk more, eat wisely, avoid tobacco, control blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, recognise warning symptoms and seek medical attention without delay.

“Don’t Miss a Beat—Don’t Miss the Warning Signs, Don’t Miss the Opportunity to Prevent, and Don’t Miss the Chance to Protect Your Heart.”  Because every heartbeat counts.

The Department of Nuclear Medicine, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, celebrated its 37th Foundation Day with a three-day academic and alumni program from 18–20 September 2026, bringing together alumni, distinguished national and international experts, faculty, delegates and well-wishers of the Department.

The celebrations began with an Alumni Day on 18 September, providing a warm and memorable opportunity for former students and alumni to reconnect with their teachers, colleagues and the Department. The gathering was cherished by the alumni and reflected the strong professional and personal bonds that have developed over nearly four decades of the Department’s journey.

The celebrations were followed by the 37th Foundation Day International Symposium, held on 19–20 September at the Dr S S Agarwal Auditorium, Lecture Theater Complex, SGPGIMS, on the theme “Precision Healthcare Through Nuclear Medicine: Imaging Biology, Treating Disease.”

The international symposium brought together eminent experts from Europe, the United States of America and across India, creating a platform for exchange of contemporary knowledge and experience in nuclear medicine. The scientific programme addressed several rapidly evolving areas, includingtheranostics, radiopharmaceuticals and radiochemistry, dosimetry-guided radionuclide therapy, PSMA radioligand therapy, neuroendocrine tumour theranostics and PRRT, nuclear cardiology, differentiated thyroid cancer, FAPI imaging, alpha therapy, emerging molecular targets and total-body PET/CT.

A major highlight of the Foundation Day celebrations was the Foundation Day Oration delivered by Prof. Med. AjuPazhenkottil, Senior Consultant Cardiologist, Cardiac Imaging, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, on “Beyond the Visible: Precision Cardiovascular Medicine through Imaging.”

The Foundation Day ceremony also featured lamp lighting, addresses by institute leadership, plantation, felicitation of former Heads and remembrance of former faculty members Late Prof. B K Das and Dr A B Sewatkar.

On this important milestone, the Department expressed its sincere gratitude to the institute leadership, former Heads, alumni, national and international faculty, delegates and all well-wishers whose continued association has contributed to its growth and academic legacy.

The Department also acknowledged with gratitude the dedicated efforts of its current faculty-Prof. P. K. Pradhan, Prof. SukantaBarai, Prof. Amitabh Arya, Prof. Manish Dixit, Dr Manish Ora, Dr Aftab Hasan Nazar and Dr Praveen, along with all other faculty members and staff, whose collective contribution helped make the Foundation Day celebrations and international symposium possible.

The three-day celebrations concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening academic excellence, research, molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical science, theranostics and patient-centred precision healthcare, while fostering greater national and international collaboration.

The 37th Foundation Day thus became not only a celebration of the Department’s journey and achievements, but also a reaffirmation of its enduring bonds with its alumni and its vision for the future of nuclear medicine.

As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, the department organised a voluntary blood donation camp in the morning. The initiative was aimed at promoting the spirit of voluntary blood donation and encouraging members of the department and the institute community to contribute towards saving lives. The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation, reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility and commitment to serving the community.

This year, the department decided to honour the courage and struggles of the ICU survivors and celebrate the perseverance of the family members who stood by them through their difficult journey.

The programme started with a welcome address by the Head, Department of CCM Dr. Banani Poddar. Following this, Director, SGPGI Dr. R K Dhiman and Dean Dr Manoj Jain addressed the audience present in the auditorium.

This was followed by the Director and Dean’s address. Highlighting the difficult nature of the work being done by the department, the Director said that the Institute is actively pursuing the increase in bed strength of the department.

Around 10-12 survivors and their family members had come for the programme. While all of them were thankful for the care given by the departmental staff, the family members recollected the difficult times they had spent while their loved ones were admitted in the ICU. Some of the survivors recounted their stories with added humour. They were all grateful to the supporting staff for their compassion, guidance and constant encouragement. The department honoured the survivors and their family members with small gifts.

The department also took this opportunity to recognise the contribution of the ICU staff, who work silently behind the scenes. The department thanked their selfless work and gave them a small token of appreciation each.

The Foundation Day programme ended with a vote of thanks by Prof Afzal Azim and group photographs with all those present.

Dr Anju Rani, Senior Gynaecologist and the interdisciplinary team of Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) successfully removed a 6.5 kg huge abdomino-pelvic mass from a 48-year-old postmenopausal woman. This marks the third consecutive successful surgery for a huge abdomino -pelvic mass at the Institute within one month.

The 48-year-old woman presented to the Gynaecology OPDwith a massive abdominal swelling associated with severe difficulty in walking, sitting and breathing. The large mass was also exerting pressure on and affecting her right kidney. She had undergone an attempted surgery at another centre approximately two years ago; however, the procedure had to be abandoned after opening and closing the abdomen without removal of the mass.

Following detailed evaluation and careful surgical planning, the patient underwent surgery at SGPGIMS. A 6.5 kg mass comprising both solid and cystic components was successfully removed from the abdomen. The mass had extensively engulfed the uterus and both ovaries, making identification and preservation of these structures extremely challenging. Careful and meticulous dissection was performed to identify the uterus and ovaries and safely remove the massive lesion.

The patient tolerated the procedure well and had a smooth and satisfactory postoperative recovery.

The surgery was led by Dr. Anju Rani. The surgical team comprised Dr. Nidhi Singh, Dr. Sarita, Dr. Shikha, Dr. Shivani, Dr. Ritesh and Dr. Nirmayank. The anaesthesia team included Dr. Aruna Bharti and Dr. Nidhi.

The nursing and support staff included Sister Jyoti, Divya, Monika, Vandana and Beerbhan, whose contribution was important to the successful management of the case.

The successful management of this challenging case, following two previous unsuccessful attempts, highlights the expertise of the SGPGIMS team in handling complex and giant abdomino-pelvic masses, along with the importance of meticulous surgical planning, teamwork and coordinated perioperative care.

The successful removal of this mass is also the third such major abdomino-pelvic mass surgery performed successfully at SGPGIMS within the past one month, reflecting the Institute’s growing expertise in managing complex and challenging gynaecological surgical cases.

Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, celebrated the 80th Independence Day of the nation with great enthusiasm, fervour and dignity. Director of the Institute, Padma Shri Prof. R. K. Dhiman, unfurled the National Flag as per tradition. Following the National Anthem, he addressed the faculty members, officers and employees present on the occasion.

Paying heartfelt tributes on behalf of the Institute to the brave martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice of their lives in the service of the nation, the Director said that Independence Day is an occasion to celebrate the country’s freedom, remember the sacrifices made to achieve it, and reflect upon our remarkable journey of progress and development.

Director Presents an Account of the Institute’s Achievements and Progress

In his address, the Director presented a detailed account of the major achievements and progress made by the Institute over the past year.

He said that SGPGIMS has established a distinct and prestigious identity across the country in the fields of medical education, research, innovation and excellence in patient care.

Highlighting the major achievements of the Institute, he said that SGPGIMS has established itself as one of the leading medical institutions in the country through its excellence in medical education, research, innovation and patient care.
The Institute has been awarded A++ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), reflecting its high standards in education, research, administration and institutional excellence.
SGPGIMS secured 5th position in the country in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings, reflecting its excellence in academics, healthcare services and research.
SGPGIMS has also secured a Global position around the 400 mark in the QS World University Rankings, establishing a strong international presence. Its position among the country’s leading medical institutions, after AIIMS, New Delhi and PGIMER, Chandigarh, reflects the Institute’s growing global reputation.

He also presented an account of remarkable progress in faculty and non facultyrecruitment. Elaborating on faculty recruitment, he informed  thatthe Institute has successfully completed six cycles of appointments, during which 213 appointment letters have been issued to the facultyso far. As a result of these recruitments, the Institute currently has more than 450 faculty members. This strengthening of human resources is playing a vital role in further advancing high-quality medical education, cutting-edge research and excellent and dedicated patient care at the Institute.

Speaking about the recruitment in Paramedical and Other Cadres the Director said that another significant achievement has been the initiation of the recruitment process for new appointments in paramedical and other cadres. The process is progressing successfully and will further strengthen the human resource base of the Institute.

The Director also spoke about the Saloni Heart Foundation, an important initiative aimed at providing excellent and comprehensive paediatric cardiology services to children suffering from congenital heart disease. He informed that construction of the Advanced Pediatric Centre is also underway. He further stated that the Institute is expected to receive a Gamma Knifefacility very soon, which will further strengthen advanced neurosurgical and radiosurgical treatment services.
Emphasising Total Digitization and the use of Artificial Intelligence, the Director said that a paperless healthcare ecosystem is being developed through Electronic Medical Records (EMR). This will make patient care, medical record management and communication across different levels of the Institute more seamless, efficient and streamlined. The Director also informed about the forthcoming projects i.e.Multi Organ Transplant, Quaternary Health-Care  and Next Generation Sequencing.

A large number of faculty members, officers, employees and students participated in the Independence Day celebrations. Students of the College of Nursing and College of Medical Technology presented patriotic songs and dance performances, filling the atmosphere with a strong spirit of patriotism.

On this occasion, dedicated and hardworking members of the Institute were felicitated by Director Padma Shri Prof. R. K. Dhiman for their outstanding performance and noteworthy contribution to the Institute.

The programme was attended by Executive Dean Prof. Manoj Jain, Chief Medical Superintendent Prof. Devendra Gupta, Medical Superintendent Prof. R. Harshvardhan, ER Col Varun Bajpai, Joint Director (Administration) Shri Prakash Singh, other faculty members, senior officers and employees.

The Independence Day celebrations reinforced the spirit of dedication to the nation, excellence, innovation and commitment to public serviceamong all members of the Institute.

Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, achieved a significant milestone in research excellence with five research proposals selected for funding totaling about 11.2 crores under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Restricted Call for Proposals for Top 10 NIRF-Ranked Medical Institutions, aimed at elevating the global ranking of Indian health research institutions. The Institute also secured ICMR funds for three projects in the intermediate category, representing research funding of additional ₹8.46 crore.Thus,the Institute has secured ICMR funding of around 20 crores this year till August 2026.

Director Prof. Radha Krishan Dhiman said this is a notable achievement that reflects the Institute’s strong research ecosystem, multidisciplinary expertise, and commitment to addressing important and emerging healthcare challenges through innovative and translational research. It further strengthens SGPGIMS position as a leading center for high-quality, clinically relevant, and translational biomedical research, with a focus on translating scientific discoveries into meaningful advances in patient care.

The diversity and scientific scope of these projects demonstrate the Institute’s expanding capabilities in molecular medicine, organoid technology, next-generation sequencing, cancer biology and therapeutic innovation and intervention.

Dean, SGPGI Prof Shaleen Kumar, said that the selection of eight proposals in a competitive national-level call is a significant recognition of the scientific capabilities of SGPGIMS faculty and the supportive research environment fostered by the Institute.

Prof Vinita Agrawal, Faculty In-charge Research, informed that under the leadership and constant encouragement of the Director, Prof RK Dhiman, the Institute received 81 proposals from the faculty for the NIRF call, of which 22 were selected by the Research Committee for submission to ICMR. Five were ultimately selected by ICMR for funding. She said the Institute congratulates Dr. Rohit Sinha, Dr. Lokendra Sharma, Dr. Alok Kumar, Dr. Atul Garg, and Dr. Kulwant Singh, Dr Amit Goel, Dr Atul and Dr Kirti Naranje along with their research teams, on this outstanding achievement and wishes them success in implementing their projects.

Dr Atul Garg, Assistant FIR said that the selected projects span diverse areas including MASLD, Glioblastoma, Pregnancy-associated anemia, Renal transplantation,Cancer immunotherapy, Neonatal diseases, Viral hepatitis, and renal disease,highlighting ICMRs breadth and clinical relevance of the research being underway at SGPGIMS.

Selected Research Proposals:

1. Dr. Rohit Sinha, Department of Endocrinology
   “Targeting Cholangiocyte Aquaporin–Mitochondrial Pathways to Mitigate Fibrotic Progression in MASLD”
   The project explores novel cholangiocyte and mitochondrial pathways involved in the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and has the potential to identify new therapeutic targets.
2. Dr. Lokendra Sharma, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology
   “Leveraging Patient-Derived Organoids for Bio-banking and Therapeutic Innovations in Glioblastoma”
   This innovative project aims to utilize patient-derived organoids for disease modeling, biobanking, and evaluation of therapeutic strategies in glioblastoma, with potential applications in personalized cancer research.
3. Dr. Alok Kumar, Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology
   “Hepcidin-Based Stratification and Therapeutic Response Evaluation in Pregnancy-Associated Anemia”
   The study will investigate the role of hepcidin in stratifying patients with pregnancy-associated anemia and evaluating therapeutic response, with the potential to contribute to more individualized management strategies.
4. Dr. Atul Garg, Department of Microbiology
   “Prospective Plasma Virome Profiling by NGS for Early Prediction of Viral Reactivation and Dysfunction in Renal Transplant Recipients”
   Using next-generation sequencing (NGS), this project seeks to characterize the plasma virome and identify early markers of viral reactivation and graft dysfunction in renal transplant recipients, addressing an important challenge in transplant medicine.
5. Dr. Kulwant Singh, Department of Hematology
   “Therapeutic Targeting of Lymphoid-to-Myeloid Lineage Switch: An Escape Mechanism of CD19-Directed Immunotherapies”
   The project investigates lymphoid-to-myeloid lineage switching as a mechanism of escape from CD19-directed immunotherapies and explores potential therapeutic approaches to overcome this resistance mechanism.
6. Amit Goel, Department of Hepatology

“RESOLVE-C Trial: A Multicentric, Open-Label, Non-Inferiority, Randomized Controlled Trial to Reduce Sofosbuvir plus Velpatasvir Treatment Duration from 24 to 12 Weeks in Patients with Hepatitis C and Advanced Cirrhosis”.

The study aims to provide evidence for a shorter, more convenient and potentially cost-effective treatment strategy without compromising treatment efficacy.

7. Atul, Department of Nephrology

“Renal Macrophage Heterogeneity in IgA Nephropathy: Investigating Renal Macrophage Heterogeneity and Fibrotic Signaling in IgA Nephropathy: Towards Prognostic Biomarkers and Targeted Therapeutic Strategies”

The study aims to identify novel prognostic biomarkers and molecular pathways that could serve as targets for more personalized therapeutic approaches.

8. Kirti Naranje, Deaprtment of Neonatology

“Automated TPN Compounding System: Proof-of-Concept Development and Preclinical Validation of a Compact Sterile Automated Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) Compounding System for Neonatal Intensive Care Units”

The technology is intended to improve the accuracy, sterility and safety of TPN preparation while reducing manual errors and enhancing efficiency in neonatal care.

Doctors at the Department of Orthopaedics, Apex Trauma Centre, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), have successfully saved the hand of an elderly patient with a rare giant cell tumor of the distal radius, using an advanced limb-salvage procedure performed completely under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana (AB-PMJAY).

Giant cell tumor of bone is an uncommon, locally aggressive bone tumor that predominantly affects young adults between 20 and 40 years of age. Its occurrence in elderly individuals is rare, making this case particularly unusual and clinically challenging.

The patient presented with progressive wrist pain and swelling, and investigations revealed an aggressive giant cell tumor involving the distal end of the radius. Left untreated, the tumor could have caused extensive bone destruction, loss of wrist function, and severe disability.

To optimize surgical outcomes, the orthopedic team administered neoadjuvant Denosumab, a targeted therapy that reduced the biological activity of the tumor, promoted new bone formation around its margins, and facilitated safer surgical removal while preserving surrounding soft tissues.

After adequate response to therapy, the surgeons performed an En bloc resection of the tumor with oncologically safe margins. The resulting bone defect was reconstructed using an autologous ipsilateral fibular graft, harvested from the patient's own leg. This biological reconstruction restored forearm continuity and wrist stability while preserving the patient's hand and providing the best opportunity for long-term functional recovery.

The surgery was led by Dr. Amit Kumar Additional Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, ATC. Anaesthetic management was led by Dr. Prateek Bais, Chief Anaesthetist, ensuring safe perioperative care.The orthopaedic team also included Senior Residents Dr. Amit Kumar and Dr. Utsav, whose coordinated efforts contributed to the successful outcome.

The patient recovered well following surgery, and follow-up examinations have shown satisfactory graft incorporation, a stable reconstruction, and no evidence of local recurrence. With structured rehabilitation, the patient has regained useful hand function and is able to perform routine daily activities independently.

The treating team stated that giant cell tumors of the distal radius remain among the most challenging benign bone tumors because they require complete tumor removal while maintaining hand function. The successful combination of neoadjuvant denosumab, meticulous oncological resection, and reconstruction with an autologous ipsilateral fibular graft demonstrates the advances in limb-salvage surgery now available at SGPGIMS.

The doctors also emphasized that this case highlights the transformative impact of the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana (AB-PMJAY). Through the scheme, patients from economically vulnerable families can access highly specialized orthopedic oncology procedures, advanced biological therapies, and complex reconstructive surgeries at premier government institutions such as SGPGIMS without the burden of catastrophic healthcare expenses.

This successful treatment reflects SGPGIMS's commitment to delivering world-class cancer and reconstructive orthopedic care while ensuring equitable access through national health initiatives. The case stands as an example of how advanced medical expertise, modern technology, and government-supported healthcare can together preserve both life and limb.