ISACON 2025: ISA Jammu branch honoured as 'Best state branch'
Jammu, Nov 30: In recognition of its exceptional contribution to academic activities, cultural engagement, and sports initiatives, the Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA) Jammu branch was awarded the ‘Best state branch’ and secured the second prize for membership drive by the national ISA at ISACON 2025, Raipur, on November 29, 2025.
“This prestigious honour stands as a testament to the branch’s dedication, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to the growth and upliftment of the specialty,” a spokesperson said.
The Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA), established in 1947, has consistently worked toward addressing challenges and advancing the field of anaesthesiology across the nation.
The ISA Jammu city branch was formally established in 1993 under the supervision of Dr Pramilla Sharma, former HoD, GMC Jammu.
Since then, the branch has grown steadily under the leadership of distinguished presidents including Dr Satyadev Gupta, Dr Gurmeet Singh Reen, Dr Nandita Mehta, Dr Anita Vig, Dr Rajesh Mahajan, and Dr Ashwani Kumar.
Over the years, more than 160 anaesthesiologists from across Jammu have joined as members of the Jammu Society of Anaesthesiologists.
A major milestone was achieved in 2014, when the branch was officially registered as the Jammu Society of Anaesthesiologists under the guidance of Dr Nandita Mehta (HoD, ASCOMS).
The present elected body (December 2024) includes Dr Ashwani Kumar, president; Dr Updesh Kumar, general secretary; Dr Mushtaq Wani, vice president; Dr Renu Wakhloo, treasurer, and Dr Sucheta Hans and Dr Kunal Sharma, joint secretaries and ten executive members.
“Since its inception and particularly under the leadership of Dr Ashwani Kumar and Dr Updesh Kumar-the ISA Jammu branch has remained committed to promoting academic excellence, professional development, and community awareness in the field of anaesthesiology,” the spokesperson said.
“The branch has conducted numerous academic initiatives including CMEs, workshops, quiz competitions, pro-con sessions, and a series of awareness campaigns on important themes such as labour analgesia and ‘Know your anaesthesiologist.’ The branch also launched online teaching webinars for postgraduate students and anaesthesiologists across Jammu, further strengthening continuous medical education,” the spokesperson added.
These activities, as per spokesperson, have been organised not only at GMC Jammu, but also at Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar, ASCOMS, GMC Udhampur, and several other institutions, bringing together anaesthesiologists from across the region.
In a landmark initiative, the branch celebrated World Anaesthesia Day on October 16 as a vibrant cultural extravaganza, with enthusiastic participation from anaesthesiologists and faculty of various medical colleges, AIIMS Jammu, and J&K Health Services.
Another major highlight of the year was the organisation of a ‘Walkathon’ and ‘Sports Day’ on November 23, aimed at enhancing public awareness while fostering unity, fitness, and camaraderie within the anaesthesia fraternity.
“The branch also successfully hosted the North Zone PG Assembly from March 21 to 23, 2025, a major academic event featuring expert faculty from across India who delivered lectures on contemporary challenges and advancements in anaesthesia. This assembly served as a vital academic platform for postgraduate students from all over North India,” the spokesperson said.
