Message From President

Dear Friends

Wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2026.

It is with immense pride, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility that, with your love and support, I step into the role of President of the Association of Surgeons of India for the year 2026. I am truly grateful for the trust you have placed in me to lead this prestigious and vibrant association.

I sincerely acknowledge and thank my predecessors who have shaped ASI into a dynamic organization, setting benchmarks through outstanding academic initiatives and meaningful social welfare programs.

Several successful programs are already underway. The Skill Development Program enables younger colleagues to observe commonly performed surgical procedures at centres of excellence, with active interaction and guidance from experts. Recently, we have established an Endoscopy Skill Centre at our ASI Headquarters in Chennai with a structured training module, in addition to the ongoing Endoscopy Training at the Doorstep initiative.

The Ultrasound Training Program for Surgeons is another valuable initiative, particularly useful in emergency situations such as trauma, where bedside ultrasound can be lifesaving. Our international collaborations continue to grow stronger through partnerships with various foreign surgical societies, promoting global exchange of knowledge and expertise.

The flagship academic initiative of ASI, the Regional Refresher Course (RRC), continues to gain popularity year after year. Top postgraduate students across the country benefit not only through cash awards but also through opportunities for free training at international medical institutions.

Equally important is the social responsibility of our association. Free surgery camps, blood donation camps, awareness programs, and Basic Life Support (BLS) training are conducted with enthusiastic participation from our members across the nation.

New Initiatives Planned for 2026

1) ASI Manual – Development of standardized modules for commonly performed surgical procedures, to be implemented with the support of state and city chapters.

2) Surgical Video Repository – Uploading committee-selected surgical procedure videos on the official ASI YouTube channel.

3) Research Methodology & Paper Writing Module – Developed in coordination with the editors of the Indian Journal of Surgery (IJS).

4) Healthy Surgeon – Healthy Nation – A structured program focusing on physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connectivity of surgeons.

5) Sports Day Celebrations – National-level competitions in selected sports, to be conducted during Surgeon’s Day or the pre-conference day of ASICON.

6) Tree Plantation Drive – Promoting an eco-friendly and sustainable environment.

7) Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Training – Preparing surgeons for the future of surgical practice.

I earnestly request all members of ASI to actively participate in these programs and contribute towards making our association stronger, progressive, and glorious.

Long Live ASI.

Warm regards!!!

Dr. D.Maruthu Pandian

President
The Association of Surgeons of India