First ever Pediatric Non-communicable diseases conference at AIIMS Nagpur

Pediatric Non-communicable diseases(NCDs) are causing global and national health burden, close to surpassing death and diseases due to infections. Pediatricians and public health experts now warn that childhood NCDs are fast emerging as the next silent epidemic. India has made remarkable progress in protecting children from life-threatening infections through robust public health programmes such as “Mission Indradhanush” which has significantly improved immunization coverage across the country. Unlike infections, NCDs like Mental health, including mobile/digital addiction, Obesity, Type 1 Diabetes, Childhood Asthma, Sickle cell disease, Developmental disorders and Congenital Heart Disease often remain under-recognized in children until complications arise, leading to long-term health, social, and economic consequences

To address the lifelong impact of NCDs in children and to emphasize the vast opportunities for prevention, early detection, and effective management, the Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS Nagpur, in collaboration with UNICEF is organizing “UNICON-25” first national conference on 21st September 2025. This pioneering event is exclusively designed for medical undergraduates, the future torchbearers of healthcare in our country.

This landmark event brings together experts, students, and policy leaders to address some of the most urgent challenges in child health today. Keeping in mind the young participants, learning has been creatively designed through workshops. The conference features a rich academic program, including workshops, plenary talks, interactive sessions, and a quiz.

Workshops will cover critical conditions which have the clearest pathway for prevention, early diagnosis and management namely, asthma, congenital heart disease, obesity, mental health, sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes, and child development.
Inauguration and Guest talks will be delivered by eminent leaders: Dr. B. N. Gangadhar, former Chairman of the National Medical Commission, and Prof. Dr. Prashant P. Joshi, Executive Director and CEO, AIIMS Nagpur. Their vision underscores the integration of medical education, clinical practice, and policy leadership.

UNICON-25 emphasizes that improving pediatric health in India demands collective effort and collaboration between institutions, policymakers, and global organizations.
More than just a conference, UNICON-25 is a movement, reminding us that the health of children mirrors the health of our collective future.