Latest news with #PGIChandigarh
Hindustan Times
24-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Dr Umesh Jindal, an IVF expert for 40 years, says couples now see IVF as a health choice: ‘Not a shameful last resort'
The year was 1996. Chandigarh's first IVF baby was born at a fertility centre. These were times when In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) was perceived with stigma and scepticism. Yet, Dr Umesh Jindal, who has dedicated over 40 years of pioneering work and research in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), is committed to restoring hope, dignity, and possibility for couples struggling with fertility. The 71-year-old veteran says her medical journey was riddled with resistance, but she found strength in empowering women silenced by the burden of infertility. World IVF Day 2025: Dr Umesh Jindal sheds light on IVF's benefits, emotional challenges, and the journey toward parenthood(Dr Umesh Jindal) For World IVF Day 2025, Health Shots reached out to infertility specialist, obstetrician, and gynaecologist Dr Umesh Jindal to discuss a four-decade-long journey in the field of IVF, battling myths and misconceptions, spreading awareness, and the changing perception towards Assisted Reproductive Technology. Excerpts from the interview: Q. What led you to begin your journey in IVF and infertility care in the 80s? Dr Umesh Jindal: During my early years working at PGI Chandigarh, I witnessed countless women facing social stigma and emotional trauma due to infertility, especially in the 1980s when such issues were either ignored or ridiculed. That experience left a lasting impression on me, and being part of a World Health Organisation (WHO) project on infertility at the time gave me both the technical insight and the conviction to address this silent suffering. No doubt, the challenges were immense, as there were no trained embryologists, no local equipment suppliers, and even the concept of IVF was met with scepticism. Q. Would you describe your early journey in this field as an emotionally driven mission? Dr Umesh Jindal: During my early years of service, I saw firsthand how women facing infertility were often blamed, ostracised and cruelly labelled as 'banjh' or barren. It was heartbreaking to witness how society reduced their identity to a condition they had no control over, treating them as lesser beings within their own families. What made it even more painful was knowing that in many cases, it was later found that the cause lay with the male partner, yet women bore the entire blame. This social stigma was not just unfair but deeply damaging both emotionally and mentally. Q. As a fertility expert offering IVF treatment, what kind of societal or cultural resistance did you face? Dr Umesh Jindal: At the outset of my journey, what stood out most was not open resistance but a prevailing silence and unwillingness to confront the reality of infertility. Couples, especially women, were hesitant to acknowledge infertility openly, fearing social judgment and being seen as incomplete or incapable. Many believed in myths or relied on unscientific remedies rather than seeking medical help. There was also a cultural hesitation around discussing reproductive health, making it challenging to introduce new technologies like IVF. Women often faced pressure from families to conceive quickly, and if they could not, the blame rested squarely on their shoulders. Even when couples were informed, many still hesitated to visit a clinic out of fear that their community or family would find out, choosing instead to suffer quietly rather than risk being identified with infertility. Those who gathered the courage often visited under changed names or disguised their identities, arriving at odd hours or through secret routes. As a practitioner, I have also faced resistance and scepticism from peers and society alike. Questions were raised about the morality of IVF and whether such science should be pursued, but I remained committed to my belief that this was both ethical and necessary. Q. Looking back at 40 years in the field, what have been some of the most significant breakthroughs or turning points for you? Dr Umesh Jindal: Delivering North India's first IVF baby in 1996 marked a defining moment that demonstrated the power of persistent effort backed by science to turn possibility into reality. Likewise, introducing genetic screening techniques like PGT-HLA and PGT-SR brought new hope for families dealing with inherited conditions such as thalassemia. Similarly, advancing embryo freezing through vitrification made treatments more adaptable and outcomes more consistent. Expanding care by partnering with hospitals across smaller cities also helped take quality services closer to people without compromising standards. Building structured training programs and hosting seminars for embryologists has been equally crucial because growing the field with skilled and ethical professionals ensures continuity. These milestones together represent a single consistent goal, making fertility care not just a clinical pursuit but a deeply human commitment to restoring hope, dignity and possibility. Q. Can you share a life-changing success story that captures the emotional essence of IVF and its impact on a family? Dr Umesh Jindal: One case that profoundly captures the emotional essence of IVF was when a couple approached us in 2019 with a concrete and deeply moving hope. Their first child suffered from thalassemia major, and they wished not only for another baby but for a healthy sibling who could one day save their elder child through a bone marrow transplant. It was not a simple IVF journey. We had to repeat the entire process three times to carefully create a sufficient pool of 16 to 18 embryos, thereby increasing the chances of finding at least one embryo that was both HLA-matched and free from thalassemia. This involved countless injections, meticulous genetic screening through PGT-HLA, and months of resilience from both the couple and our team. Against immense odds, only one viable embryo matched both criteria. That single chance led to the birth of a healthy baby in April 2024. It was a moment that reaffirmed the true purpose of what we do.
Indian Express
08-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Securing 74 grants in just two years is a testament to PGI's relentless pursuit of excellence: Dr Rajiv Bahl
'PGI Chandigarh is truly a national treasure, a hub where the brightest minds converge to push the boundaries of medical science. Over the past two years alone, PGI has secured 74 grants, with nearly half dedicated to developing new interventions and technologies. This is a testament to PGI's relentless pursuit of excellence and its vital role in India's innovation ecosystem,' said Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research. Addressing the 62nd Institute Foundation Day celebrations of PGI as the chief guest, ICMR director deneral lauded PGI's crucial role in clinical trials and translational research during his keynote address themed on 'Creating more physicians, scientists and innovators in leading medical institutes'. 'PGI's position as one of the primary institutes conducting phase one clinical trials outside industry showcases our capacity to bring cutting-edge therapies from bench to bedside. This is essential for making India a global leader in medical research and development.' Highlighting the importance of integrating research with clinical practice, Dr Bahl said that the 'future of Indian healthcare rests on our ability to develop new interventions and diagnostic tools. ICMR's focus on evidence-based research, combined with its commitment to training physician scientists, is essential for India's journey toward self-reliance in medical technology'. Dr Bahl emphasised the importance of engineer-doctor industry partnership to create science and research into innovation to reach out to patients as he highlighted 'ICMR's strategic collaborations with IITs, AIIMS, and other premier institutions exemplify our collective commitment to bridging medicine and technology. The pioneering devices developed here, such as the infrared hematoma detector and Mobi-lab, have already garnered international attention, even impressing global leaders like Bill Gates. It's a proud moment for India and a validation of our leadership in healthcare innovation.' Sharing ICMR's vision for Viksit Bharat, Dr Bahl underpinned that the goal is to support Indian scientists and entrepreneurs in creating first-in-the-world technologies. 'The recent challenge grants and patent support programmes of ICMR are designed to catalyse this spirit of innovation, ensuring India remains at the forefront of medical breakthroughs.' Earlier, Prof Vivek Lal, Director of PGI, acknowledged the PGI team's diligence and hard work amid an exponentially growing patient burden. 'We make up for infrastructure gaps through relentless passion.' Thirty-one PGI employees were honoured for their outstanding service on the occasion.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
PGI's miracle of sound: Infant gets hearing gift with implant
1 2 3 Chandigarh: In a medical accomplishment that resonates with profound hope for families battling the silence of deafness, PGI Chandigarh has successfully performed an Auditory Brainstem Implant (ABI) on Abeer, a child barely 1.4 years old. This makes him one of the youngest recipients of this life-altering procedure in India, offering a lifeline where conventional hearing solutions have failed. For Abeer's mother, Shilpa, it ignites a deeply personal hope of hearing her son utter a single word – 'ma' even if it takes years of waiting. For Sumit and Shilpa, parents of little Abeer, life had been a silent, heart-wrenching struggle. "When Abeer was a year old, he just wasn't responding," recounts Shilpa, her voice still carrying the echoes of past pain. A Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry test at AIIMS Bathinda confirmed their deepest fears: profound deafness. The devastating news was compounded when an MRI revealed Abeer's hearing nerve was tragically undeveloped, ruling out the more common cochlear implant. "We were heartbroken," Shilpa admits, recalling their desperate journey to Delhi, only to hit a dead end. Abeer's father, Sumit is a businessman based in Bathinda and has relocated to Chandigarh for Abeer's treatment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Hope, however, glimmered when Abeer was identified at PGI as a candidate for the highly specialised ABI. This groundbreaking procedure bypasses the non-functional cochlea and auditory nerves, directly stimulating the brainstem to interpret sound. Prof Ramandeep Virk from the department of otolaryngology, the main surgeon for Abeer's case, said, "Abeer was born with Michels aplasia, a rare congenital malformation where inner ear structures are completely absent. For children like Abeer, ABI is the only viable path to sound," adding that "the youngest in India to be treated was a child at the age of 1.39 years, in 2018 in Chennai." While around 120 ABI surgeries have been performed across the country, most have taken place in private centres in Chennai, where the cost can soar to Rs 16-17 lakh for a single ear implant. At present, only Tamil Nadu government covers the expense of this surgery. "We have had a word with the Haryana government on coverage for this surgery for our paediatric population here in the PGI. Two of our patients have been offered assistance from the state government, and we are hoping for more," said Prof Virk. The surgery itself, independently performed by Prof Virk (ENT) and Dr Apinderpreet Singh (neurosurgery), presented immense challenges. "Operating on such a young child involves significant risks due to anaesthesia, potential blood loss, and delicate tissue handling," said Dr Ashwani Reddy, the anaesthesiologist involved in the case. Post-operative care is equally critical, requiring vigilant monitoring in the ICU for at least 48 hours to prevent complications. "Yet, the younger the age, the better the outcomes for hearing, making early intervention paramount," emphasised Dr Parul Sud, the audiologist for the case. The PGI team stressed that the journey ahead for Abeer is long as the implant in the brain has to be activated soon. "Unlike a cochlear implant, which sees learning within six months, an ABI works at the brain level, so learning takes much longer. Therapies will continue for three to four years, requiring immense patience," said Prof Virk. He underscored the importance of parental commitment, stating, "We seek only motivated parents, as it's not about numbers, but sustainability – the dedication to years of therapy and follow-ups. " This achievement marks PGI's second successful ABI. Their first, performed in 2022 on a 2.5-year-old girl, involved a team including Prof Naresh Panda, Dr Mohan Kameshwaran, and Dr Vasu, who had flown from Chennai to assist. "Abeer's surgery was initially scheduled two months prior, but a crucial airport closure during the Pahalgam incident prevented the visiting pioneer, Prof Kameshwaran, from arriving; otherwise, Abeer could have been the country's absolute youngest at that time," said Prof Virk. ABI can only be performed in children with inborn defects where the inner ear nerve connecting to the brain is missing. Those who have undergone a previous cochlear implant are not found suitable for the ABI. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
Time of India
26-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Free treatment at one govt hospital in every Haryana district from Aug 15: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini
Kurukshetra: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced a major healthcare initiative under which free treatment for all diseases will be provided at one govt hospital in each district headquarters starting Aug 15. Addressing villagers in Kishanpura and Girdarpur, the CM said these hospitals will be equipped with modern facilities and will also offer services under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. He also visited and interacted with residents of Ban, Behlolpur, and Jalkheri villages. To ensure efficient referrals, committees will be constituted at each of these hospitals to decide whether patients need to be sent to higher institutions like PGI Chandigarh or other tertiary care centres. Saini made these announcements during direct interactions with villagers at the community centre in Kishanpura and the Gurdwara hall in Girdarpur. Listening to citizens' concerns, the CM issued instructions to relevant departments for immediate action. On this occasion, he also participated in a tree plantation drive with local residents and announced a grant of Rs 21 lakh each for developmental works in both villages. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Esta pulseira repelente de mosquitos bate todos os recordes de vendas em Portugal ZSONIC Compre já Undo Responding to demands submitted by the sarpanch of Kishanpura and Girdarpur, Saini assured that all requests would be fulfilled through relevant departments. He emphasised his deep connection with the Ladwa constituency, saying, "It is because of the people of Ladwa that I am the chief minister. Today, Ladwa holds a special place in Haryana's development vision." The CM shared that over Rs 110 crore worth of development projects are currently under way in Ladwa and praised the cooperation of district officials in resolving public issues promptly. Touching on the agricultural sector, Saini noted that the govt is procuring all crops at minimum support price (MSP) and bridging price gaps through the Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana. Additionally, efforts are under way to provide housing to the economically weaker sections, reflecting the BJP govt's commitment to working in "mission mode" across the state. Saini invited people to freely submit their grievances in writing to DC Neha Singh, other local officials, or the CM's office. "In case of an emergency, people are welcome to come and meet me in Chandigarh," he added. He also took the opportunity to reflect on history, observing that June 25 marked 50 years since the imposition of Emergency in India, calling it one of the darkest periods post-Independence. "Nearly one lakh forced sterilisations took place, and citizens lived in fear. Many were forced to flee their homes and hide in sugarcane fields. It is vital that the youth understand this history to prevent its repetition," he said. Key officials present at the event included CM office in-charge Kailash Saini, Kurukshetra deputy commissioner Neha Singh, superintendent of police Nitish Aggarwal, various local sarpanches, and community leaders. MSID:: 122073231 413 |
Time of India
25-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Every disease will be treated free of cost in government hospitals at every district headquarters of state: CM Nayab Saini
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini KURUKSHETRA: Haryana chief minister (CM) Nayab Singh Saini announced a healthcare initiative under which free treatment for all diseases will be available at one government hospital in each district headquarters starting from August 15, 2025. Addressing villagers in Kishanpura and Girdarpur, the CM said that these hospitals will be equipped with modern facilities and will also offer services under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The CM also visited and listened to residents of Ban, Behlolpur and Jalkheri villages. To ensure efficient referrals, committees will be constituted at each of these hospitals to decide whether patients need to be sent to higher institutions like PGI Chandigarh or other tertiary care centers. At the village events, CM Saini said that the state government has completed all preparations to implement the Lado Lakshmi Scheme. Under this scheme, an amount of Rs 2,100 will be deposited into the bank accounts of women later this year. A provision of Rs 5,000 crore has also been made in the budget for this initiative. He said a significant aspect is that out of the 217 promises made by this government, 28 have been fulfilled in the last five months, and work is underway on 90 more. The government is accelerating development across all sectors and is committed to ensuring that the benefits of its schemes reach every individual, the CM said. CM Saini made these announcements during a direct interaction with villagers at the community center in Kishanpura and a Gurdwara hall in Girdarpur. Listening to citizens' concerns, the CM issued instructions to relevant departments for immediate action. On this occasion, he also participated in a tree plantation drive with local residents and announced a grant of Rs 21 lakh each for developmental works in both villages. Responding to demands submitted by the sarpanch of Kishanpura and Girdarpur, Saini assured that all requests would be fulfilled through relevant departments. He emphasised his deep connection with the Ladwa constituency, saying, 'It is because of the people of Ladwa that I have reached the position of Chief Minister. Today, Ladwa holds a special place in Haryana's development vision.' The CM shared that over Rs 110 crore worth of development projects are currently underway in Ladwa and praised the cooperation of district officials in resolving public issues promptly. Touching on the agricultural sector, Saini noted that the government is procuring all crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and bridging price gaps through the Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana. Additionally, efforts are underway to provide housing to the economically weaker sections, reflecting the BJP government's commitment to working in 'mission mode' across the state. Saini invited people to freely submit their grievances in writing to DC Neha Singh, other local officials, or the CM's office. 'In case of an emergency, people are welcome to come and meet me in Chandigarh,' he added. He also took the opportunity to reflect on history, observing that June 25 marked 50 years since the imposition of Emergency in India, calling it one of the darkest periods post-Independence. 'Nearly one lakh forced sterilizations took place, and citizens lived in fear. Many were forced to flee their homes and hide in sugarcane fields. It is vital that the youth understand this history to prevent its repetition,' he said. Key officials present at the event included CM Office in-charge Kailash Saini, Kurukshetra DC Neha Singh, SP Nitish Aggarwal, various local sarpanches and community leaders.
