CHANDIGARH | March 22, 2026 – Underscoring its role as a premier hub for complex child healthcare, the Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology at PGIMER inaugurated the “Monothematic Conference on Paediatric Cholestasis” and the 4th Prof. Saroj Mehta Memorial Orationtoday.
The event highlighted the massive clinical footprint of the department, which manages over 15,000 OPD patients, 3,000 endoscopic procedures, and 1,000 admissions annually.
The Mission: Dignity and Inclusion
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head of the Division, emphasised that the responsibility of a paediatrician extends beyond the clinic. “Children with chronic illnesses deserve dignity and inclusion. It is our duty to ensure these children are integrated into society with a high quality of life, preventing a future burdened by an unhealthy adult population,” she stated.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head of the Division, emphasised that the responsibility of a paediatrician extends beyond the clinic. “Children with chronic illnesses deserve dignity and inclusion. It is our duty to ensure these children are integrated into society with a high quality of life, preventing a future burdened by an unhealthy adult population,” she stated.
Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics) and Chief Guest, lauded the department’s dedication, noting that timely diagnosis remains the biggest hurdle. “Children are our ambassadors of hope. Early recognition of conditions like biliary atresia is crucial, and platforms like this are essential to bridge the gap in referrals and diagnosis,” Prof. Ratho remarked.
Faces of Hope
In a moving segment, the institute felicitated five young patients who have successfully battled life-threatening liver conditions. Among them were
In a moving segment, the institute felicitated five young patients who have successfully battled life-threatening liver conditions. Among them were




















