Prof N N Wig oration at PGI highlights psychiatry’s transformative journey

The Department of Psychiatry, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Tuesday hosted the prestigious Prof N N Wig oration, delivered this year by Prof Mohan Isaac, renowned psychiatrist, teacher, and global mental health leader. His lecture, entitled ‘The Changing Landscape of Psychiatry: A Personal Kaleidoscopic View of the Past 50 Years,’ traced the evolution of psychiatry through decades of progress, debate, and reform.

Prof Isaac reflected on the shifting paradigms that have shaped the field, touching on key issues, including the reliability and validity of psychiatric diagnosis, the growing global movement for increasing mental health awareness, the rise and influence of the anti-psychiatry movement, and the far-reaching impact of deinstitutionalisation. Drawing from his rich international experience, he highlighted how psychiatry has navigated challenges, embraced scientific advances, and responded to social change. Speaking to an audience of students, faculty, and professionals, Prof Isaac emphasised the need for psychiatry to remain humane, inclusive, and scientifically grounded. He also underlined the importance of integrating mental health into primary health care and addressing stigma to ensure equitable access to services worldwide.

Instituted in honour of the late Prof N N Wig, a pioneer of psychiatry in India, the oration serves as a platform to celebrate thought leadership and critical reflection in mental health. This year’s oration not only offered a historical perspective but also opened conversations on the future direction of psychiatry in India and globally.

GMCH-32 docs given additional charge

Dr Vishal Guglani, head of Department, Paediatrics, GMCH-32, has been given the additional charge of Senior Registrar Academics, and Dr Sudesh Arya, Professor of Ophthalmology, has been given the additional charge of Assistant Registrar Academics. This step is aimed at further strengthening the academic functioning of the institution, ensuring improved coordination, enhanced academic delivery and positive outcomes for students.