Rare Disease Day was celebrated by the Center of Excellence for Rare Diseases and Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS Bhopal. This year's theme is "The Zebra". On this occasion, Professor (Dr) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal was present as the chief guest.

Expressing his views, he said that we should organize such awareness programs outside the campus, especially in colleges where future parents study and there is a greater need for such awareness. Professor Singh said that we should also include occupational therapy in the treatment of children suffering from rare diseases. We not only have to improve the lives of children but also make them self-reliant.

Earlier, the presence was welcomed by Dr. Shikha Malik, Head of Pediatrics Department. He said that such programs were run throughout the month and during this period various types of competitions were also organized which included debates, poster making, slogans etc. Apart from this, children suffering from rare diseases also presented cultural programs. Also, the parents of these children shared their experiences and said that if we trust the doctor, we will definitely be able to provide a good life to the children suffering from rare diseases.

Besides, AIIMS Bhopal has witnessed remarkable achievements in various academic forums. Recently, Dr M Sangita, Dr. Divya Bhushan and Dr. Rishabh Chandela, resident from the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, AIIMS Bhopal were awarded with the Fellowship for the training of young scientists.

The fellowship was awarded during the 39th Madhya Pradesh Young Scientist Congress organized by the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (MPCST) from 21st-23rd, Feb 2024 held at Madhav Institute of Technology and Science (MITS) in Gwalior. The fellowship comes with various benefits, including a fully funded training program for young scientists, which will help to enhance research skills and knowledge.