CHANDIGARH: In a landmark step for medical education and child healthcare, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has launched India’s first three-year DM Super-Specialty Programme in Pediatric Dermatology through the prestigious Institute of National Importance Super-Specialty (INI-SS) pathway.
Introduced by the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, the programme marks a significant milestone in the evolution of dermatology education in the country and further strengthens PGIMER’s position as a leader in advanced medical education, patient care and research.
PGIMER Director Prof. Vivek Lal described the initiative as a landmark achievement that reflects the institute’s commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare.
“The launch of India’s first DM Super-Specialty Programme in Pediatric Dermatology through the INI-SS pathway is a landmark achievement that reflects PGIMER’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and patient-centred healthcare. The programme will nurture highly skilled specialists, strengthen specialised paediatric skin care, promote cutting-edge research and multidisciplinary collaboration, and ultimately improve outcomes for children across the country,” he said.
Dr. Sunil Dogra, Professor of Dermatology at PGIMER, Chandigarh, who has made pioneering contributions to paediatric psoriasis and vitiligo, said, “The DM programme in Pediatric Dermatology reflects the growing need for specialists dedicated to the care of children with skin diseases. Early diagnosis and timely, evidence-based management can not only provide relief but also prevent long-term complications, reduce disability, and significantly improve the quality of life and overall well-being of affected children and their families. This achievement is a proud milestone for our Department and the culmination of years of collective efforts of the entire faculty of the department, academic commitment, and teamwork, nurtured by PGIMER’s outstanding academic environment and visionary leadership. We are confident that the programme will nurture future leaders in Pediatric Dermatology and further strengthen specialized skin care services for children in India.”
The three-year programme has been designed to develop specialists with advanced expertise in the diagnosis and management of the full spectrum of childhood skin disorders. It will provide comprehensive training in treating common conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, urticaria, infections, pigmentary disorders and hair disorders, as well as rare inherited skin diseases that require specialised multidisciplinary care.
According to the institute, the programme is expected to improve access to specialised pediatric dermatology services across the country by promoting early diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and better long-term health outcomes for children.
Apart from clinical training, the programme will also serve as a platform for high-quality clinical, translational and genomic research in pediatric skin diseases. It aims to develop future leaders in the specialty, encourage multidisciplinary collaboration and generate evidence to improve standards of care.
With the introduction of this first-of-its-kind DM programme, PGIMER has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing emerging healthcare needs through innovation, advanced medical education and specialised patient care while further consolidating its position as a national leader in medical research and healthcare excellence.
