Navodaya Medical College (NMC), Raichur, inaugurated the 24th Batch of the MBBS undergraduate degree course for the academic year 2026–27 on 12 October 2026 at the college auditorium. The ceremony marked the beginning of a new academic journey for 220 newly admitted MBBS students, who took the students’ pledge and donned their white coats, symbolising their entry into the noble profession of medicine and their commitment to ethical practice, professional integrity, and compassionate patient care.

The programme was attended by the parents of the newly admitted students, faculty members, and distinguished dignitaries from Navodaya Education Trust (NET) and the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Raichur.

Inauguration and Distinguished Dignitaries

The programme was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Harish Kumar Sardana, Director, Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Raichur. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Gurudatta S. Pawar, Dean/Principal, Navodaya Medical College, Raichur.

The distinguished dignitaries present on the occasion included:

• Dr. T. Srinivas, Registrar, Navodaya Education Trust, Raichur.
• Dr. Amruth Reddy, Director of Operations, Navodaya Education Trust, Raichur.
• Dr. P. Vijay Kumar, Director, Institutional Promotion and Student Affairs (IP&SA), Navodaya Education Trust.
• Dr. Arun K. N., Medical Superintendent, Navodaya Medical College Hospital and Research Centre (NMCH&RC), Raichur.

The programme was organised under the leadership and guidance of the management of Navodaya Education Trust and the administration of Navodaya Medical College. The invitation acknowledged Shri S. R. Reddy, Hon’ble Chairman, Navodaya Education Trust, as the Chief Patron of the event.

Traditional Invocation and Welcome Address

The ceremony commenced with the traditional Saraswathi Pooja, invoking the blessings of Goddess Saraswathi for knowledge, wisdom, and success in the students’ academic journey. This was followed by Vande Mataram and the Naadageethe, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the occasion.

Dr. A. S. Aanand, Vice Principal and Professor and Head of the Department of Pathology, NMC, delivered the welcome address. He welcomed the dignitaries, faculty members, parents, and the newly admitted students to the Navodaya family. He highlighted the significance of the occasion and extended his best wishes to the students as they embarked on their journey towards becoming competent and compassionate medical professionals.

Dr. Aanand also played an important role in coordinating the programme, preparing the student anchors, and guiding student volunteers to ensure the smooth conduct of the ceremony.

Introduction of the Distinguished Guest

Dr. Anand Kumar H., Professor, Department of Microbiology, NMC, introduced the distinguished guest, Dr. Harish Kumar Sardana, Director, IIIT Raichur. The introduction highlighted the importance of welcoming a leader from the field of technology to address aspiring medical professionals at a time when medicine and emerging technologies are increasingly interconnected.

The dignitaries were welcomed with floral bouquets presented by the Heads of Departments and senior faculty members.

Formal Inauguration and White Coat Ceremony

The formal inauguration of the 24th MBBS batch for the academic year 2026–27 was performed by the dignitaries. The occasion was followed by the White Coat Ceremony, an important milestone in the professional formation of medical students.

The white coat symbolised the students’ entry into the medical profession and their responsibility to uphold the principles of medical ethics, dignity, empathy, accountability, and service to humanity.

Students’ Pledge

Dr. Bande Nawaz, Professor and Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology and Coordinator, Medical Education Unit (MEU), NMC, administered the students’ pledge.

The 220 newly admitted students pledged to uphold the values and responsibilities of the medical profession. The pledge reinforced the importance of integrity, dedication, respect for patients, professional conduct, and compassionate healthcare delivery.

The occasion served as a reminder that medical education extends beyond acquiring theoretical knowledge and clinical skills; it also requires a lifelong commitment to ethical practice and the welfare of society.

Address by the Distinguished Guest

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Harish Kumar Sardana, Director, IIIT Raichur, spoke about the growing intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern medicine. He highlighted the expanding role of AI in clinical practice, diagnosis, therapeutics, and medical research.

Emphasising the potential of technology to improve healthcare delivery, he observed that AI can provide assistance in diagnosis and therapy, enabling healthcare professionals to serve humanity more effectively.

He also drew attention to the rapid advancement of the medical profession worldwide and encouraged the newly admitted students to remain updated with emerging technologies and scientific developments. He urged them to make effective use of the state-of-the-art facilities and learning opportunities available at Navodaya Medical College to enhance their knowledge, develop practical competencies, and prepare themselves for the evolving demands of healthcare.

His address encouraged students to appreciate the complementary roles of medical knowledge, technological innovation, clinical judgement, and human compassion in shaping the future of medicine.

Following his address, Dr. Harish Kumar Sardana was felicitated in recognition of his presence and contribution to the inaugural ceremony.

Address by Dr. T. Srinivas, Registrar, NET

Dr. T. Srinivas, Registrar, Navodaya Education Trust, congratulated the newly admitted students on qualifying for medical education through the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). He encouraged them to remain focused on their aspirations and make the best use of the opportunities provided by the institution.

Highlighting the importance of practical competencies alongside academic knowledge, he remarked:

“The medical profession does not demand marks; it demands skills.”

He emphasised that developing professional skills, clinical competence, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-life situations is essential for future doctors. He highlighted Navodaya Education Trust’s commitment to skill development and assured parents that their children were entering a supportive learning environment.

Describing Navodaya Education Trust as a “Campus of Possibilities,” he encouraged students to remain disciplined, pursue their goals with determination, and avoid distractions that could affect their academic and professional development.

His address reinforced the importance of combining academic excellence with practical abilities, professional discipline, and a clear sense of purpose.

Presidential Address by Dr. Gurudatta S. Pawar, Dean/Principal, NMC

In his presidential address, Dr. Gurudatta S. Pawar, Dean/Principal, Navodaya Medical College, congratulated the students and their parents on this important milestone.

He highlighted the institution’s emphasis on comprehensive medical education, integrating academic learning, clinical and practical skill development, and research. He encouraged students to utilise the educational resources, infrastructure, and guidance provided by the college to develop into competent, responsible, and compassionate medical professionals.

He also drew attention to the diverse career pathways pursued by graduates of Navodaya Medical College, reflecting the wide range of opportunities available to students through the institution’s academic and professional ecosystem.

He encouraged the incoming batch to maintain discipline, commitment, curiosity, and perseverance throughout their medical education and to uphold the values and standards expected of the medical profession.

Vote of Thanks and Acknowledgements

The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Bande Nawaz, Professor and Head, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology and Coordinator, Medical Education Unit, NMC.

On behalf of the management, organising committee, faculty members, and the entire Navodaya family, he expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful conduct of the ceremony.

He placed on record his appreciation for Shri S. R. Reddy, Hon’ble Chairman, Navodaya Education Trust, acknowledging his vision, leadership, and continued commitment to institutional development and excellence.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, Dr. Harish Kumar Sardana, for inaugurating the programme and delivering an inspiring address on the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in medicine.

He thanked Dr. Gurudatta S. Pawar, Dean/Principal, NMC, for his guidance, presidential address, and leadership in coordinating the programme, including his support to the organising team and student anchors.

He also acknowledged the presence and contributions of the Guests of Honour: Dr. T. Srinivas, Registrar, NET; Dr. Amruth Reddy, Director of Operations, NET; Dr. P. Vijay Kumar, Director, IP&SA, NET; and Dr. Arun K. N., Medical Superintendent, NMCH&RC.

Special appreciation was extended to Dr. A. S. Aanand, Vice Principal and Head of Pathology, for his warm welcome address and efforts in preparing the anchors and coordinating student volunteers. He thanked Dr. Anand Kumar H., Professor of Microbiology, for introducing the distinguished guest.

Dr. Bande Nawaz also acknowledged the valuable contribution of Dr. K. Srinivas Rao, Professor of Biochemistry, for managing the audio and sound systems and coordinating the stage, auditorium, and backstage arrangements.

He appreciated the Heads of Departments and senior faculty members for welcoming the dignitaries with bouquets. Special appreciation was extended to the student anchors, Neelisha and Deeksha, for their effective presentation, and to the final MBBS student volunteers led by Hashwathi and team, including Akshita and Tushita, for guest reception and escorting, and Rizwan and team, including Subhan and Vivek, for stage assistance, coordination, and ushering.

He further thanked everyone involved in the Saraswathi Pooja, Vande Mataram, and Naadageethe, as well as the non-teaching staff, technical personnel, auditorium coordinators, and other supporting teams whose efforts contributed to the smooth and successful execution of the programme.

Addressing the parents, he expressed gratitude for placing their trust in Navodaya Medical College. Welcoming the newly inducted 24th MBBS batch, he reminded the students that wearing the white coat and taking the students’ pledge marked the beginning of a profession founded on knowledge, integrity, and compassion. He extended his best wishes to all students for a successful and meaningful medical career.

Conclusion

The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, marking the formal end of the inauguration programme.

The inauguration of the 24th MBBS batch was a significant occasion for Navodaya Medical College, bringing together institutional leadership, distinguished guests, faculty members, parents, and 220 aspiring medical professionals. The programme emphasised the importance of academic excellence, practical skill development, ethical responsibility, research, and the appropriate use of emerging technologies in modern medicine.

As the new students begin their medical education at Navodaya Medical College, the institution reaffirms its commitment to nurturing competent, compassionate, ethical, and future-ready doctors dedicated to serving society and advancing healthcare.

— Navodaya Medical College, Raichur

Navodaya Education Trust

Navodaya Medical College & Hospital Research Centre, Raichur, is proud to announce a significant milestone in its journey towards advancing high-quality clinical and community-based research.

Our faculty members have become an integral part of the prestigious CHETNA–SMRUTHI INDIA Trial, a multicentric research initiative led by AIIMS New Delhi and supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The study addresses an important public-health challenge — preventing cognitive decline and dementia among high-risk elderly populations through a comprehensive approach involving lifestyle education, physical exercise, and cognitive training.

The SMRUTHI INDIA initiative has already established a cohort of approximately 3,000 high-risk elderly participants across four regions of India, including Karnataka.

Navodaya Research Team

We are proud to have the following distinguished faculty members representing Navodaya in this national-level research initiative:

Dr. Mohammed Shoyaib Khazi
Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine
Site Principal Investigator

Dr. V. Rama Mohan Gupta
Director, Academic Development & Research, Navodaya Education Trust
Site Co-Investigator

Dr. Roopakala N.
Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine
Site Co-Investigator

Dr. Sunil Kumar
Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry
Site Co-Investigator

Significant Research Funding

The project is expected to bring research funding of approximately ₹76 lakh to Navodaya Medical College for conducting the study at the Karnataka site.

This achievement represents more than the commencement of a research project. It reflects Navodaya’s growing research capabilities, academic excellence, and active contribution to national-level collaborative research initiatives.

Heartiest congratulations to all the investigators and the entire Navodaya research team on this remarkable achievement.

The inclusion of Navodaya Medical College in this prestigious multicentric research initiative is a matter of great pride for Navodaya Medical College & Navodaya Education Trust and marks another important milestone in our continued efforts to strengthen research, innovation, and academic excellence.

Congratulations to the entire Navodaya family.

We look forward to making a meaningful contribution to this important national research initiative and to advancing knowledge that can support healthier ageing and improved quality of life for elderly populations.

Raichur, 26 September 2026:

Navodaya Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Raichur, conducted Session 2 of the Infection Control Training Programme under the aegis of the Hospital Infection Control Committee (HICC) on Saturday, 26 September 2026, at Guru Murthy Hall.

The one-hour training session focused on “Biomedical Waste Management – Segregation, Collection, Transfer and Storage,” with emphasis on safe biomedical waste handling, proper segregation practices, and adherence to hospital infection control protocols.

The programme was attended by Postgraduate students, MBBS interns, nursing staff and supervisors, OT personnel, nursing students, and housekeeping staff and supervisors. The session aimed to strengthen awareness and ensure consistent implementation of biomedical waste management practices across the hospital.

The training was conducted by:

• Dr. Preethi, Infection Control Officer (ICO)
• Mrs. Nethravathi, Deputy Nursing Superintendent (DNS)
• Mr. Hari Prasad, Assistant Nursing Superintendent (ANS)

The programme reflects the institution’s continued commitment to patient safety, occupational safety, infection prevention, and compliance with NABH standards. Regular training sessions such as these contribute to building a strong culture of safety and maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery at Navodaya Medical College Hospital & Research Centre.

The institution remains committed to sustaining regular infection control training and strengthening best practices across all hospital departments.

Date: 25 September 2026

Venue: Unit 1, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, Chiksugur, Raichur District

Organized by: Blood Centre, Department of Pathology, Navodaya Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Raichur

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

To commemorate the birthday of Shri Vishnukant Bhutada, Managing Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, a Voluntary Blood Donation Camp was organized on 25 September 2026 at Unit 1, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, Chiksugur, Raichur District. The camp was organized by the Blood Centre, Department of Pathology, Navodaya Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Raichur, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Inauguration

The inaugural ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp in the presence of:

• Mr. K. Sharat Reddy, Technical Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd.
• Mr. Krishna Elasagaram, Plant Head, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd. – Unit 1
• Mr. Y. Satish Kumar, Senior General Manager, Quality Assurance, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd. – Unit 1
• Mr. Mahesh Pattanshetty, Assistant General Manager, HR, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd. – Unit 1
• Dr. A. S. Aanand, Vice Principal, Professor & Head, Department of Pathology, Navodaya Medical College Hospital & Research Centre
• Dr. Ashraf Ahmed Zubair, Medical Officer, Blood Centre, NMCH&RC
• Dr. Keerti Sahi, Medical Officer, Blood Centre and Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, NMCH&RC
• Dr. Prasanna N., Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, NMCH&RC

Programme Highlights

The blood donation camp aimed to promote a culture of voluntary, regular and non-remunerated blood donation as an important social responsibility. The initiative also sought to strengthen and sustain the voluntary blood donor pool and contribute to meeting the increasing demand for safe blood and blood components in healthcare services.

Mr. K. Sharat Reddy, Technical Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd., highlighted the contribution of Shri Vishnukant Bhutada, Managing Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, towards the development of the Raichur region and his contribution to the livelihood and upliftment of more than 5,000 families through his various ventures. He appreciated the employees who voluntarily came forward to donate blood as part of the birthday commemoration.

Mr. Krishna Elasagaram, Plant Head, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Ltd. – Unit 1, also highlighted the direct and indirect contributions of the Managing Director to the community in and around Raichur. He stated that organizing a blood donation camp was a meaningful way of rendering social service and reflected the values of the institution.

Dr. A. S. Aanand, Vice Principal, Professor & Head, Department of Pathology, NMCH&RC, highlighted the contributions of two prominent pioneers associated with the development of Raichur—Shri S. R. Reddy, Hon’ble Chairman, Navodaya Educational Trust, in the field of education, and Shri Vishnukant Bhutada, Managing Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, in the pharmaceutical industry. He also extended his gratitude to Management NET, Registrar NET Dr. T. Srinivas, Director of Operations NET Dr. Amruth Reddy, Dean/Principal NMC, for guidance and support to this event.

Dr. Aanand emphasized the importance of voluntary blood donation and the continuous availability of safe blood and blood components for patients in need. He stressed that voluntary blood donation is an important community responsibility and encouraged people to contribute regularly towards meeting the healthcare needs of the community.

Dr. Ashraf Ahmed Zubair, Medical Officer, Blood Centre, NMCH&RC, briefed the participants about the recommended frequency of blood donation, the different blood components obtained from donated blood, and the importance of regular voluntary non-remunerated blood donation. He emphasized the need to strengthen a sustained culture of voluntary blood donation to meet the increasing requirement for blood and blood components in healthcare.

Blood Collection

A total of 77 units of blood were collected from voluntary donors during the camp. The donors included Officials, Supervisors and supporting staff of Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited.

The dedicated contribution of the technical staff of the Blood Centre, NMCH&RC; postgraduate students of Medicine; CRMI students; B.Sc. MLT interns; nursing staff and students; and other supporting staff was noteworthy in ensuring the smooth conduct of the camp.

Conclusion

The Voluntary Blood Donation Camp was conducted successfully and received appreciation from the authorities of Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited. The enthusiastic participation of employees and the collection of 77 units of blood reflected the spirit of voluntary service and social responsibility.

The programme served as a meaningful initiative to commemorate the birthday of Shri Vishnukant Bhutada, Managing Director, Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited, while simultaneously contributing to the availability of blood for patients in need.

The entire event was highly appreciated by the authorities and was considered a successful and meaningful community-oriented initiative by Shilpa Pharma Lifesciences Limited and the Blood Centre, Department of Pathology, NMCH&RC.

Dr. Trupti, Professor of Physiology, brings laurels to Navodaya Medical College & Research Centre, Raichur

Raichur: It is a matter of immense pride for Navodaya Education Trust and Navodaya Medical College & Research Centre, Raichur, as Dr. Trupti, Professor, Department of Physiology, has secured the Best Paper Award in the Faculty – Original Paper (Oral Presentation) category at PATHOPHYSIOCON 2026, a national conference held at Haveri Institute of Medical Sciences, Haveri, Karnataka.

The conference, themed “Decoding Disease through the Lens of Homeostasis…”, brought together medical faculty, postgraduate students and undergraduate students for scientific presentations and academic exchange. The event was organised by the Departments of Physiology and Pathology, Haveri Institute of Medical Sciences, in association with Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Bengaluru, and the Karnataka Chapter of the Indian Association of Pathologists & Microbiologists (KCIAPM).

Dr. Trupti presented her original research paper titled:

“Association of Serum Cystatin C with eGFR & Vitamin D in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as a marker of preclinical kidney disease: A cross-sectional study in a Tertiary Care Centre.”

Her research was selected as the Best Oral Paper in the Faculty Category, recognising the scientific merit and quality of her work and presentation. The award reflects her commitment to academic excellence, research and continuous professional development.

This achievement is a proud moment for Navodaya Medical College and the entire Navodaya family. It highlights the institution’s commitment to fostering a culture of research, innovation, academic excellence and evidence-based medical education.

The management and faculty of Navodaya Medical College congratulate Dr. Trupti on this distinguished accomplishment and sincerely appreciate her dedication, perseverance and efforts in representing the institution at a national academic forum.

Her success serves as an inspiration to faculty members and students to pursue meaningful research and strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Heartiest Congratulations to Dr. Trupti!

🌟 INFECTION CONTROL TRAINING – BLOOD SPILL MANAGEMENT 🌟

Navodaya Medical College & Hospital, Raichur, proudly congratulates Dr. Pallavi Kanthe, Faculty of Physiology, on securing Third Place in the Faculty Oral Paper Presentation at the 3rd National Conference on Nutrition & Health (NCNH) – 2026.

Her achievement at this national-level academic conference reflects her commitment to academic excellence, research, and professional development. The recognition is a proud moment for Navodaya Medical College & Hospital and highlights the institution’s continued efforts to encourage faculty participation in academic and research activities.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to Dr. Pallavi Kanthe on this commendable accomplishment and wish her continued success in her academic, research, and professional journey.

As a part of National Eye Donation Fortnight – 2026, a Guest lecture on “Eye Donation Awareness” was organized and conducted by Department of Ophthalmology on 5th September 2026 at Dr C.M. Gurumurthy Hall, Navodaya Medical College and Hospital, Raichur, with the aim of creating awareness about the importance of eye donation among young medical professionals.

The programme was conducted for medical students and house surgeons, emphasizing their important role in educating patients and the community about eye donation. The guest lecture was delivered by Dr. Vaibhav Kandhuri, Cornea and Anterior Segment Surgeon, who provided an informative overview of eye donation, its importance in combating corneal blindness, and the role of corneal transplantation in restoring vision.

The session addressed common myths and misconceptions regarding eye donation and explained the basic procedure, eligibility and importance of timely eye retrieval after death. The speaker encouraged the medical students to actively counsel patients and their families and spread awareness about eye donation in the community. Around 200 medical students, house surgeons, faculty and postgraduates from various departments participated and made the programme successful.

The programme was an enriching and meaningful learning experience for the participants. It reinforced the message that one decision to donate eyes can give the gift of sight to another person, highlighting eye donation as a noble contribution towards eliminating avoidable blindness.