JAMMU: The premier annual conference of the Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL) — CUTICON J&K 2025 — was successfully organized on October 25–26, 2025, at the Convention Centre, Canal Road, Jammu, under the aegis of IADVL Jammu & Kashmir State Branch.
The conference was led by Dr. Devraj Dogra, Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology, GMC Jammu, as the Organizing Chairperson, and Dr. Rohini Sharma, Associate Professor and Head, GMC Rajouri, as the Organizing Secretary.
The theme of the conference, “Exploring Dermatology: Past, Present, and Future,” focused on revisiting the rich legacy of dermatology while exploring new horizons in research, therapeutics, and clinical practice.
Highlights of the Conference
The two-day scientific event witnessed participation from prominent national and international academicians and researchers representing premier institutions such as AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, and various other medical colleges across the country.
The conference featured lectures, discussions, and hands-on workshops on a wide spectrum of dermatological topics, led by experts of international repute. The Scientific Committee, chaired by Dr. Naina Dogra, curated intellectually stimulating sessions that covered:
- Recent advances in therapeutics for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and connective tissue disorders
- Emerging research on vitiligo, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), tuberculosis, leprosy, fungal infections, and cutaneous leishmaniasis
- A panel discussion on quackery in dermatology, which sparked engaging dialogue between panelists and the audience
The event also provided a vibrant platform for junior doctors and postgraduate students to present their work through free and award paper sessions and to participate in a state-level quiz competition.
Workshops and Skill-Based Sessions
Specialized hands-on workshops on lasers, Botox, and thread-based anti-aging procedures were conducted, offering participants practical exposure and insights from leading practitioners. The sessions encouraged a healthy exchange of knowledge and clinical expertise among delegates and faculty.
Inaugural Ceremony and Felicitations
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Rajeev Sharma, National President, IADVL, who also served as the Chief Guest.
Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal & Dean, GMC Jammu; Prof. Iffat Hassan, Principal & Dean, GMC Srinagar; and Dr. A.S. Bhatia, Principal & Dean, GMC Rajouri, were the Guests of Honour.
The ceremony was attended by heads of various departments, administrative officers of GMC Jammu, and medical superintendents of associated hospitals, who shared their insights and experiences with the participants.
A special highlight of the event was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, former Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to the field.
Other renowned dermatologists from J&K — including Dr. Jitender Arora, Dr. Vipin Gupta, Dr. H.S. Soodan, Dr. Sunil Dogra, Dr. Satgur Dayal, Dr. Naina Dogra, Dr. Mashkoor Wani, Dr. Shivani Ranjan, Dr. Arti Sakral, Dr. Supreet Singh, and Dr. Abhirut Thakur — were also felicitated for their service and achievements.
Conclusion
CUTICON J&K 2025 served as a dynamic platform for professional exchange, continuing medical education, and collaboration among dermatologists across the region and beyond. The conference concluded with a commitment to advance the frontiers of dermatological science for better patient care and research in Jammu & Kashmir.
