Foreword

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,
As we reflect on the successful culmination of the 61st Annual Conference of The Indian Academy of Pediatrics, PEDICON 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering dedication and enthusiasm exhibited by each and every participant. It was truly a privilege to witness the exchange of knowledge, the fostering of new connections, and the collective commitment to advancing pediatric healthcare.
Under the theme of “Global Warming and Child Health,” PEDICON 2024 provided a timely platform to explore the intersection of environmental factors and pediatric well-being. The discussions and insights shared during the conference underscored the pressing need for action to mitigate the impact of climate change on our youngest and most vulnerable populations. From understanding the health effects of air pollution to discussing strategies for building resilience in the face of environmental challenges, our collective efforts have illuminated a path forward towards a healthier and more sustainable future for our children.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the entire organizing committee, led by Dr. S S Kamath, Dr. M Narayanan and Dr. Junaid Rahman whose tireless efforts ensured the success of PEDICON 2024. Their leadership, coupled with the dedication of all the esteemed faculty played an integral role in orchestrating a memorable and impactful conference.
Furthermore, I am pleased to announce the forthcoming release of the Highlights of PEDICON Book. This memorabilia of the PEDICON Kochi congress succinctly summarizes the talks of the congress in one page each, allowing readers to grasp the essence of the deliberations from this significant congress. It is my hope that this resource will serve as a valuable tool for furthering knowledge and understanding in the field of pediatric healthcare.
To all delegates and participants, I commend your active engagement and contributions towards advancing pediatric healthcare. Your willingness to embrace innovation, collaborate across disciplines, and address complex challenges head-on is a testament to the strength and unity of our community.
As we depart from Kochi and return to our respective endeavors, let us carry forward the spirit of PEDICON 2024. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of children, both within our communities and on a global scale. Together, we have laid the foundation for continued progress and positive change.

Warm regards,

Dr. G V Basavaraja
President, Indian Academy of Pediatrics