Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Feb 24: Recently Mangaluru was witness to a mega event, 'Dermacon 2015', a national conference organized by the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL). Over 5,000 medical practitioners from across the country and abroad camped in the city for the three-day event which not only consisted of enlightening, thought-provoking seminars but also a fair share of cultural events, including a concert by popular singer Lucky Ali. The event was organized in the city after 32 years.
Noted dermatologist Dr Ganesh Pai shares a review of the event, in which he played an instrumental role as the head of the organizing committee.
1. What was the motivation for this mega event, the annual meet of the Indian association of dermatologists?
As president of the IADVL organizing committee, my team and I wanted to showcase the city of Mangaluru and its culture. We had to prove that as event of such a magnitude involving five thousand delegates could be demonstrated successfully in the small city. This annual meet is held in our megacities.
2. Where did the delegates come from?
From all over the country and abroad. It was the biggest ever attendance at the national meet surpassing Ahmedabad two years ago. Over a hundred delegates came from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Gulf countries.
3. How were the doctors benefited?
On the first day, we put together a wonderful continuing medical education programme showcasing several lasers. First launch in India of Helios III, a laser for pigmentation reduction and the soprano ice for hair for hair reduction using Alex technology took place.
In the next three days we had international speakers from USA, UK,Germany and South Africa and renowned professors delivering state of the art lectures.
4. How did the society benefit?
For a start we gave away Rs 8 lac to local charities, a first for our association. It was deeply appreciated. Hotel industry, transport and catering industry generated a strong business.
5. What about the cultural events?
We showcased Yakshagana and tiger dance. The nights belonged to music by Lucky Ali, Avinash Chabbi and dance by Ocean Kids.
6. Did you get local support?
Our DC, A B Ibrahim, port chairman Pareda, and police and airport authorities all laid out the red carpet and made it all possible.
7. Any feedback from delegates?
Largely appreciated but the bottleneck of hotel rooms remains. To seriously develop tourism we must develop infrastructure. Our hospitable locals and the greenery surprised the visitors.