International conference on autoimmune disorders brings together experts, researchers and learners from across the world
Udupi: Knowledge travelled across borders, ideas found new dimensions, and a shared commitment to understanding autoimmune disorders brought together a vibrant community of academicians, clinicians, researchers and students at ‘Kshamatvam’, an international conference organised by SDM.
The valedictory session reflected not merely on the academic achievements of the conference, but also on the spirit of collaboration, learning and inspiration that had grown over the course of the event.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr Nagaraj S, Vice Principal (Academics), SDM, said that SDM had provided a meaningful platform for knowledge exchange. Knowledge had flowed in from different parts of the world, while the experiences and perspectives shared by the delegates had served as a source of inspiration for everyone, he said.
Presenting the scientific report, Dr Padmakiran C. said that the conference witnessed an impressive response, with 1,400 registrations and representatives from 25 different countries. A total of 522 abstracts were received and 40 parallel sessions were conducted, reflecting the breadth and depth of academic engagement at Kshamatvam.
The conference also left a lasting impression on its participants. Delegates described the atmosphere as cohesive and conducive to learning, where ideas could be exchanged freely and meaningfully. The pre-conference hands-on training was described as an eye-opening experience, while the scientific sessions encouraged participants to move beyond surface-level understanding and explore the finer nuances of the subject.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Pradeep Kumar Prajapati, Director, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, observed that treating autoimmune disorders remains a difficult and complex task. He appreciated Kshamatvam for bringing together different perspectives on autoimmune disorders and commended SDM for choosing such a relevant and challenging theme for the conference.
Dr Siddanna Gouda A. Patil, Chairman, Board of Studies, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Bengaluru, emphasised the need to take the knowledge gained at Kshamatvam beyond the conference hall and into society.
“What we have learnt at Kshamatvam should reach society,” he said, underlining the social responsibility that accompanies knowledge. He described SDM as a trendsetter and a benchmark, and observed that knowledge becomes wisdom only when it is put into practice.
The conference also celebrated the academic contributions of young researchers. Dr Rakesh announced the winners of the Best Paper Awards, with researchers from 27 different colleges across India receiving recognition for their work.
As a mark of honour and appreciation, Dr Pradeep Kumar Prajapati and Dr Siddanna Gouda A. Patil were felicitated by the dignitaries on the dais. The sponsors who supported the conference were also felicitated for their valuable contribution to the event.
Dr Niranjan Rao, Vice Principal (Clinical), SDM, and Prasanna N. Mogasale, Organising Secretary, were present on the dais.
Delivering the presidential address, Dr Mamatha K.V., Chief Organising Secretary of Kshamatvam and Principal, SDM College of Ayurveda Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Udupi, reflected on the journey behind the conference.
“SDM is no more just an institution; it has become a brand,” she said, acknowledging the collective effort that went into making the conference a reality.
She said that Kshamatvam was the result of nine months of planning, preparation and dedicated effort. The theme of autoimmune disorders was chosen after reviewing global disease statistics, which highlighted the significant burden of autoimmune conditions.
“We also felt that this would be a great area for research and could open new avenues for future researchers,” she said, explaining the thought behind choosing the theme.
From the scientific discussions to the hands-on learning, from international perspectives to the enthusiasm of young researchers, Kshamatvam emerged as more than just an academic gathering. It became a space where knowledge met experience, research met compassion, and diverse perspectives came together with a common purpose—to understand better, learn together and contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare.
Dr Arhanth Kumar A. proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme was compered by Dr Arun Kumar and Dr Shubha P.U.