Nagpur, 16^th February 2026: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur reached a significant institutional milestone with the successful conclusion of its 1st Research Day, themed "Lab to Life: Research that Resonates". Dr. Meenakshi Girish, Associate Dean (Research), described the event as a historic day for the institute. Dr. Girish congratulated the participants and encouraged Faculty and students to study the posters displayed as a testament to the institute's growing scientific culture. The competition across different categories drew over 100 entries, followed by intensive poster evaluations on February 13 and 14. The best posters were invited to present their findings on February 16.

In the welcome address by Executive Director Dr. Prashant P. Joshi, who emphasized that research must not remain confined to laboratories but must translate into tangible bedside benefits for patients. Dr. Prashant P. Joshi in his address underscored the necessity of critical appraisal in modern clinical practice. Dr. Pradeep Deshmukh, Dean (research) presented a comprehensive report on the Institute’s Research Cell, highlighting the rapid growth of scholarly output at the campus. The day featured best presentations across various categories, evaluated by an expert panel. The research covered a diverse spectrum, from community-based interventions to advanced histogenesis.

Chief Guest, Padma Shri Dr Kameshwar Prasad, Emeritus Professor, Former Professor & Head, Department of Neurology, AIIMS New Delhi delivered a profound address on the evolving methodologies of medical evidence, emphasizing the transition from bench-side discovery to bedside application. The event was graced by guest of honour, Dr. N.K. Arora, President, AIIMS Bilaspur; Executive Director, INCLEN Trust International. Dr N.K. Arora addressed the fundamental inquiry, "Why Research?", challenging the faculty and students to solve India-specific health challenges through rigorous inquiry.

The awards ceremony celebrated the pursuit of scientific inquiry across all levels of the institution. The Department of Community Medicine was awarded 1st Prize for Best Department Research, followed by the Departments of Physiology and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. In the individual categories, Dr. Jaya Prasad Tripathy (Community Medicine) secured the 1st Prize for Best Medical Faculty Research, followed by Dr Aravind Gandhi (Community Medicine) and Dr T S Gugapriya (Anatomy).  Dr. Vinu Vij (Physiology) earned the 1st Prize for Best Publication, followed by Dr Shantanu Pande (Nuclear Medicine), Dr Sitanshu Barik (Orthopaedics) and Dr Vijay Bidkar (ENT).  Dr. Abin Varghese received Best Nursing Faculty Research award and Mrs. Gigini George received Best Nursing Tutor Research award. Furthermore, the future of medical research was showcased through the Best Poster Presentations awarded to postgraduates Dr. Anuva Kapoor, Dr. Glory Ghai, and Dr. Jwaalyn Shifani Morgan, as well as undergraduates Ms. Meenakshi Birasam, Mr. Prince RSR Aryan, and Ms. Simran Sharma. Recognition for Best Funded Concepts was bestowed upon Dr Priyanka Yadav (Community Medicine), Dr Soumya Ghoushal (Trauma and Emergency), Dr Smita R. Sorte (Physiology), and Dr Shital Maske (Anatomy).

A highlight of the evening was a high-powered Panel Discussion involving Dr. Kameshwar Prasad, Dr. N.K. Arora, and Dr. Prashant P. Joshi. The leaders discussed strategies for "Building a Research Ecosystem at New AIIMS," focusing on infrastructure, funding, and mentorship for first-generation medical researchers.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Vijayageetha, celebrating the collaborative spirit of the faculty and students who made the inaugural Research Day a resounding success.