Pune: Renowned paediatrician Dr Anand Pandit passes away

He played a key role in establishing the department of paediatrics at KEM Hospital, Pune in 1967 and the NICU in 1977, which became one of the most renowned units in the country.

As one of a group of senior doctors who worked closely alongside Dr Banoo Coyaji, he witnessed KEM Hospital’s transformation from a small facility with limited beds to a fully developed tertiary care hospital.

One of the most path-breaking initiatives in which he played a crucial role was the establishment of the TDH Rehabilitation and Morris Child Development Centre, the first-of-its-kind in Pune in 1979 which is devoted to providing diagnostic and therapeutic services for all kinds of developmental and behavioural needs of children under one roof, with an interdisciplinary team approach.

“Dr. Pandit’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all those in KEM as well as his many students and patients. We endeavour to continue upholding his legacy,” an official statement issued by KEM hospital authorities said.

Dr Umesh Vaidya, head, neonatology at KEM hospital, recalled his association with Dr Anand Pandit as one of the longest, nearly 40 years. “Among all great qualities like legends have, he as a guru and mentor taught us humility, simplicity, honesty and integrity. His clinical skills were excellent. In a world that is plagued with a complexly economic medical care, he showed us the path of contributing towards society well beyond normal professional parameters. He will live on within us and we will continue to tread the principled path that he chose for himself,” Dr Vaidya told The Indian Express.

Dr Sandeep Kadam, consultant neonatologist at KEM hospital said that apart from being a visionary teacher, exceptional clinician, and researcher he was a very nice human being. “He taught us not only medicine but also humanity and empathy,” Dr Kadam said.