The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), under the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, successfully organized SANVAD 2026 – the Scholars’ Assembly for Next-gen Ventures to Advance their Development – from 19–21 February 2026 at the ICMR–National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi.
SANVAD is an annual initiative aimed at strengthening India’s doctoral research ecosystem by promoting high-quality research, innovation, and collaboration. By rotating host institutes each year, the programme encourages national-level engagement among Ph.D. scholars and provides exposure to diverse research environments. The next edition, SANVAD 2027, will be hosted by the ICMR–National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad.
The three-day conclave brought together around 400 doctoral scholars, along with eminent scientists, policymakers, and academic leaders. The programme focused on enhancing research rigor, fostering innovation, and developing leadership skills while creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Key Highlights
Inspiring Talks: Padma Shri Anil Kumar Gupta urged scholars to pursue research addressing societal needs and grassroots innovation. Dr. Vishwajeet Kumar emphasized translating knowledge into tangible community impact, while Padma Shri Kameshwar Prasad highlighted the importance of bridging bench-to-bedside research.
Health Communication: Sessions underscored the role of strategic communication in ensuring research informs policy, builds public trust, and creates societal impact. Scholars learned that impactful research extends beyond publication and must be communicated effectively to influence practice and policy.
Town Hall Session: Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and Director General, ICMR, discussed science–policy linkages, research funding, and emerging opportunities for young investigators. He encouraged scholars to go beyond minimum Ph.D. requirements and focus on producing high-quality, meaningful research.
Technical Workshops: Scholars participated in sessions on Systematic Reviews, Evidence Synthesis, national research resources (NAMS, ONOS, INFLIBNET), and career pathways after Ph.D., equipping them with practical tools for careers in academia, industry, and policy.
Interactive Events: Participants actively engaged in the Mindstorm@ICMR Research Quiz 2026, as well as oral and poster presentations. These activities provided opportunities for peer learning, expert feedback, and interdisciplinary collaboration, making the conclave a vibrant forum for showcasing cutting-edge research.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Anup Anvikar, Director, ICMR–NIMR, praised the scholars for their dedication and described SANVAD 2026 as a visionary platform fostering research networking, interdisciplinary dialogue, and nurturing future scientific leaders. The event concluded with a valedictory session and awards ceremony recognizing outstanding research contributions.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
