The Esteemed Institution, established in 1968, marked its 57th Foundation Day today with a grand celebration. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Dr. Abhay Datakar, Dean and President of the Alumni Association GDCH, Nagpur, and Chief Guest Dr. Vivek Pakhmode, Joint Director (Dental) DMER, Mumbai. Also in attendance were Dr. Wasundhara Bhad, Dr. Mangesh Phadnaik, Vice Presidents, Dr. Damyanti Walkey, Secretary, Dr. Sachin Khatri, Treasurer, along with alumni and other Executive Committee members.
The program commenced with a Foundation Day Lecture by Dr. Satyawan Damle, Ex Vice Chancellor and Director of Maharishi Markandeshwar University, on the topic “Oral Health Remonstrance in HIV and AIDS.” Dr. Damle shared his profound knowledge and wisdom, with the audience.
Dean Dr. Abhay Datakar delivered the Presidential Remark, highlighting the rich history of the institution and its remarkable achievements in recent years. Chief Guest Dr. Vivek Pakhmode motivated students and faculty to explore new advances in dentistry, such as artificial teeth and implants.
The prestigious GDC Bhushan Awards were presented to Dr. Satyawan Damle, Dr. Jagdish Nainani, and Dr. Vivek Pakhmode for their outstanding contributions to the field. The dignitaries also released the GDC Times newsletter and unveiled the 60th Diamond Jubilee logo, symbolizing the institution’s journey towards six decades of excellence.
Various awards instituted by the Alumni Association were also presented:
Dr. Abhay Datakar received the Dr. Ramhari Sathawane Award for the highest number of publications in UGC Care Journals.
Miss Vidhi Kochar received the Smt. Parvati Vilekar Award for being the topper in First BDS.
Mr. Nikhil Shastrakar received the Basanti Devi Dultichand Gupta Award for being the topper in Final BDS Oral Maxillofacial Surgery.
Miss Swarali Kuthe received the Late Smt. Malti M Memorial Award for being the topper in Final BDS.
Miss Anupriya Singh received the Late Smt. Kanta Sondule Memorial Award.
Dr. Priyanka Relan received the Late Devanshi A Datarkar Memorial Award.
Dr. Karthika K.K. received the Dr. Satyawan Damle Award.
Miss Shraddha Gupta received the Smt. Parvati S. Damle Award.
Miss Nisha Yadav received the Shri Gangaramji Damle Award and the Smt. Chandrika Damle Award for Best Outreach Activity.
Mr. Nikhil Shastrakar received the Late Smt. Pramila Kakade Patil Award.
Dr. Ayesha Qureshi received the All-Round Intern Pradeep Dewani Memorial Award.
Dr. Abhay Datarkar received the Dr. Manoj Hakke Award for Best Innovation of the Year by faculty.
The awardees were congratulated and further motivated by the alumni.
The celebration concluded with a cultural program, enjoyed by all attendees. The event was conducted by Dr. Satyam Wankhede, Dr. Akshay Dhobale, Dr. Santosh Chavan, Dr. Manjusha Waradhpande, and Dr. Vaibhav Karemore. A vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Damyanti Walkey.