New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) In a bid to enhance institutional collaboration and broaden access to various research ecosystems, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) held a three-day event called SANVAD 2026, as confirmed by an official on Sunday.

Operating under the Department of Health Research (DHR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the ICMR conducted the Scholars’ Assembly for Next-gen Ventures to Advance their Development (SANVAD 2026) from February 19 to 21 at the ICMR–National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR), according to a statement from the official.

A significant aspect of the three-day gathering was a technical session focused on Health Communication – Translating Science for Impact. The discussions highlighted the essential role of strategic communication in ensuring that research informs policy decisions, fosters public trust, and effectively reaches communities.

The session stressed that impactful research extends beyond mere publication; it must be conveyed in a strategic, clear, and compelling manner to influence policy, practice, and societal transformation, as noted in the statement.

The concluding day featured a town hall discussion with Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research and Director General of ICMR.

This interactive session tackled topics such as science-policy connections, research funding landscapes, and new opportunities for emerging investigators.

He encouraged scholars to engage in serious and significant research, steering clear of what he termed 'tick-box research.'

"I urge you to exceed the basic Ph.D. requirements and voluntarily contribute to producing high-quality research papers. There is a difference between pressure and stress, and researchers ought to learn to manage both effectively," he remarked.

Anup Anvikar, Director of ICMR–NIMR, praised the scholars for their commitment and academic excellence.

He expressed, "I view SANVAD 2026 as a unique and forward-thinking platform that cultivates meaningful research networking, interdisciplinary dialogue, and collaborative growth among Ph.D. candidates.”

"I hope similar initiatives will be adopted and institutionalized across other ICMR institutes in upcoming years, thereby strengthening the national research ecosystem and nurturing the future generation of scientific leaders,” he added.

SANVAD is an annual initiative of ICMR, designed as a rotating national platform, hosted by different ICMR institutes each year to encourage ongoing engagement with doctoral scholars across the network.

By decentralizing its organization, this initiative enhances institutional collaboration and expands access to various research ecosystems.

Building on the success of the inaugural edition at ICMR–NIMR, the 2027 edition of SANVAD will be hosted by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad.