The 33rd Annual Conference of the National Academy of Burns – India (NABICON 2026) was inaugurated on Thursday at the Silver Oak Hall of the India Habitat Centre, drawing eminent burn care specialists, surgeons and healthcare professionals from across the country. The gathering marked an important step in strengthening burn care services and advancing academic collaboration in India.

This year’s theme, “Healing Beyond Burns: Elevating Standards & Transforming Lives,” reflected a shift toward a more holistic approach to treatment. Speakers highlighted that burn survivors face not only severe physical injuries but also deep emotional and psychological trauma.

The theme emphasised that the role of healthcare providers must extend beyond wound closure and scar management to include long-term rehabilitation, emotional recovery and social reintegration, ensuring that survivors are supported in rebuilding their lives.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Smt. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, as Chief Guest, while Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, attended as Guest of Honour. Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries underscored the importance of strengthening national burn care infrastructure and ensuring consistent standards of treatment across institutions.

In her welcome address, Dr. Sujata Sarabahi, President of the academy, stressed the urgent need for standardized and uniform treatment protocols in burn management. She called for stronger prevention strategies and comprehensive rehabilitation services, while also urging greater unity and collaboration among specialists to elevate the overall standard of burn care across India.

A major highlight of the event was the release of the Standard Guidelines for Burns Management. Developed under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as part of the National Programme for Prevention and Management of Burn Injuries (NPPMT & BI scheme), the guidelines aim to bridge gaps in existing practices and establish uniform, evidence-based protocols nationwide. The document incorporates inputs from a majority of NABI members and is expected to significantly improve the quality and consistency of care delivered to burn patients.

Dr. Smita Segú, Secretary of the academy, announced awards recognising excellence in burn care, while Dr. S. P. Bajaj, Patron of NABI, emphasised the importance of sustained training, research and collaboration in improving patient outcomes. Institutions such as Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital were appreciated for their continued contribution to patient care, teaching and capacity building in burn management.

One of the most powerful moments of the ceremony was a ramp walk by burn and acid attack survivors. The presentation, marked by confidence and resilience, became the emotional centrepiece of the event, symbolising courage, strength and the indomitable human spirit.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Deepak Nanda, Organizing Secretary of NABICON 2026, followed by the National Anthem. The conference will continue over the next two days with scientific sessions, panel discussions, workshops and academic deliberations featuring national and international faculty, aimed at advancing clinical excellence and transforming the landscape of burn care in India.