A Vision for 2026–2027: Reaching the Unreached

Dear colleagues, It is with a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude that I assume the leadership of the PHO Chapter of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (2026–2027). I thank you for reposing your faith in me to lead this prestigious body over the next two years.

Our Chapter has grown remarkably over the last 25 years. As of January 1, 2026, our membership stands at 1,350 dedicated professionals. I want to personally thank each of you for your tireless contributions to the growth of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) across India.

The Challenge Ahead

India is home to the world’s largest population of children and adolescents, and consequently, we bear the highest global burden of hematological and oncological disorders. Our task is humongous, and our responsibility to save lives is greater than ever.

Our collective mission is clear: to drastically reduce morbidity and mortality across the nation.

Our Strategic Roadmap

To achieve this, our focus for the 2026–2027 term will be built upon three core priorities.

Universal Access to Cure: While diseases like Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia dominate our clinical burden, Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) remains the curative gold standard. We will work to ensure that BMT facilities are accessible across every state, while also paving the way for Gene Therapy to become a viable and accessible reality for our patients.

Advancing Oncology Outcomes: While childhood survival rates have surpassed 80% in many centers, we cannot leave the remaining 20% behind. We aim to bridge this gap by improving access to Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and CAR-T cell treatments. Simultaneously, we will intensify efforts to eliminate treatment abandonment, a critical barrier to achieving global standards of care.

Prioritizing Research & Innovation: We will strengthen both clinical and laboratory research. By improving access to research training and dedicated funding, we aim to empower our young and talented doctors to pioneer breakthroughs, particularly in the vital fields of Cell and Gene Therapy.

Empowering the Next Generation

To our trainees and young consultants, the PHO Chapter is your home. We are committed to providing the guidance, mentorship, and resources you need to excel.

Every small step we take together today is a giant leap toward changing the life of a child tomorrow.

Our motto for this term is simple yet profound: To reach the unreached. I look forward to working alongside all of you to turn this vision into reality.

In solidarity and service,

Dr. Satya Prakash Yadav
Chairperson, PHO Chapter of IAP (2026–2027)
Director, Pediatric Hemato-Oncology & BMT
Medanta The Medicity, Gurgaon