Message From Congress President

Dear Esteemed Colleagues, Distinguished Guests, and Friends

Sadar Namaskar!

It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of honor that I extend my warmest greetings to all to participate of the IAGES-ELSA Conference 2026 which is going to be 23^rd Annual conference of IAGES and 3^rd Biennial Spring meeting of ElSA to be held in February 2026. As we converge in the vibrant and dynamic city of Mumbai, we are united by a shared commitment to advancing the field of surgery and improving patient care. This year's theme, "Beyond Evidence - Experience," encapsulates a profound understanding of the essence of our profession.

In our pursuit of medical excellence, evidence-based practices serve as the cornerstone of our decision-making processes. Rigorous research, clinical trials, and empirical data provide the foundation upon which we build our protocols and treatments. However, it is imperative to recognize that the art of surgery extends beyond the confines of textbooks and scientific papers. It is in the realm of experience where the true mastery of our craft emerges.

Each of us carries a unique tapestry of experiences, woven from countless hours in the operating room, patient interactions, and the challenges we have navigated throughout our careers. These experiences are invaluable, for they shape our intuition, refine our skills, and guide us in moments when the evidence alone may not provide all the answers. The nuanced judgment, empathy, and adaptability that come with experience are what distinguish us as surgeons and healers.

The IAGES-ELSA Conference 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity for us to come together, share our collective wisdom, and explore the intersection of evidence and experience. Let us engage in meaningful dialogues, exchange innovative ideas, and collaborate on groundbreaking research. Through this synergy, we can push the boundaries of medical science and elevate the standards of care we provide to our patients.

I am particularly excited about the diverse range of sessions, workshops, courses and presentations planned for this conference. From cutting-edge surgical techniques to case studies that highlight the triumphs and challenges faced by our colleagues, every aspect of this event is designed to enrich our knowledge and inspire us to strive for excellence.

As we embark on this journey of discovery, let us remember the importance of mentorship and the role we play in shaping the future of our profession. By sharing our experiences with the next generation of surgeons, we empower them to build upon our successes and learn from our challenges. Together, we can create a legacy of continuous improvement and innovation.

It is also important to acknowledge the global perspective that this conference brings. Colleagues from different parts of the world, with diverse backgrounds and unique approaches, will converge here to share their insights. This confluence of ideas will enable us to broaden our horizons, challenge our assumptions, and adopt best practices from across the globe. It is through this multicultural exchange that we can truly enrich our understanding and contribute to the global advancement of surgical science.

Furthermore, let us not forget the significant impact that technological advancements have on our field. From minimally invasive techniques to robotic-assisted surgeries, the integration of technology in our practice is revolutionizing patient care. The sessions dedicated to these innovations will provide us with a glimpse into the future of surgery, equipping us with the knowledge and skills to stay at the forefront of our profession.

This conference will be real tribute to Dr. T. E. Udwadia – Father of Laparoscopy in Bharat and Founder of IAGES. We see his dream of disseminating knowledge and ethics taking reality in last three decades.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers under leadership of Dr Abhay Dalvi and Dr Ramen Goel for their dedication and hard work for making this conference a reality.

I wish all successful, enriching, and inspiring conference which will enrich our social bonding. Let us embrace this opportunity to learn, grow, and transform the future of surgery together.

Warm regards and good wishes