National medical conference begins in Chennai to discuss new tech and health challenges

Medical experts from across the country are gathering in Chennai for the 66th annual conference of the National Academy of Medical Sciences. The four-day event, named NAMSCON 2026, runs from October 8 to 11.

Event Details

SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre in Kattankulathur is hosting the event under the central theme 'Synergy of Science and Technology in Healthcare for a Healthier Tomorrow'. Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is inaugurating the programme as the chief guest. Eight pre-conference workshops on October 8 focus on areas like trauma care, artificial intelligence in clinical research, spine surgery, and physician entrepreneurship.

Scientific Sessions

The scientific programme includes keynote addresses, symposia, and presentations covering diverse topics. Discussions feature antimicrobial resistance, CAR-T cell therapy, biosimilars and biologics, senolytic therapies, rare genetic disorders, emerging infections, and the Indian diabetes phenotype. Other sessions focus on medical education, surgical robotics, organ donation, and tuberculosis management.

Speakers And Leadership

Prominent speakers include Indian National Science Academy president Shekar C. Mande and National Medical Commission chairman Abhijat Sheth. Other leading figures addressing the gathering are Mohan V., Mohan Kameswaran, Vivekanand Jha, and Gobardhan Das. M. Srinivas from NITI Aayog is delivering a plenary lecture on governance and quality research during residency. The conference is organised under the leadership of R. Jayanthi, Melvin George, and State Convenor Rajarajan Swaminathan.

Context

Established in 1961, the National Academy of Medical Sciences serves as a non-statutory body that advises the Government of India on health policy and planning. Large national medical conventions like this bring together top researchers and administrators to share findings and set clinical priorities for the country.