In a major push towards strengthening India’s health research landscape, the ‘Medical College Research Connect 2026’ conference kicked off today at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. This prestigious two-day national event, running through February 27, 2026, unites representatives from more than 100 medical institutions across the country.
Initiated by the Department of Health Research, the conference focuses on fortifying research foundations in medical colleges. It operates through the Medical College Research Units set up under the government’s Central Sector Umbrella Scheme, which are dedicated to promoting quality research and equipping institutions with necessary tools.
The inauguration saw the presence of Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, as chief guest, alongside Dr. Abhijat Chandrakant Sheth, Chairman of the National Medical Commission, as special guest.
Patel highlighted the government’s proactive stance on health research during her speech. She commended the innovative projects underway in medical colleges and called upon researchers to strive for even higher standards. According to her, top-tier medical research is indispensable for India’s journey to becoming a developed economy by 2047.
The program features in-depth presentations from college delegates on their research portfolios. Attendees will engage in interactive workshops on research proposal development, advanced training modules, and explorations into biomedical research technologies. These activities are crafted to encourage cross-institutional learning and elevate research proficiency.
Event coordinators believe this gathering will enhance synergy among medical colleges, unlocking new potentials in health research and contributing significantly to national health goals.