From the President’s Desk
Dear Friends,
Warm greetings to all! As we wrapped up a month filled with festive celebrations across the country, I hope each of you had the opportunity to cherish these moments with family and friends. Despite our diverse cultural traditions, this festive spirit is a beautiful reminder that, at heart, we are all one — proud Indians, united in our shared values.
I would like to begin this communication with the most important and pressing matter concerning the Association—the issue of Goods and Services Tax (GST).
GST was implemented in India with effect from 1 July 2017. The provisions relating to GST were not applicable to the IAPC during FY 2017–18. However, with effect from FY 2018–19, the Association became liable for GST as its income exceeded the prescribed threshold of ₹20 lakhs.
The issue of GST liability has been deliberated upon on several occasions by successive Executive Committees. However, despite the discussions, deliberations and efforts made from time to time, the matter could not be brought to a final resolution. The situation has now reached a stage where the issue requires immediate and decisive attention. The Executive Committee has resolved to proceed with GST-related compliance in accordance with the expert’s recommendations.
I am confident that, with the dedicated support, collective efforts and commitment of our young, responsible and energetic Executive Members, along with the guidance and support of our senior members, the Association will successfully navigate these challenging circumstances and arrive at a satisfactory resolution. We seek the continued cooperation and support of all members as we work together in the best interests of the Association.
With this newsletter, you will also notice the refreshed new look of the IAPC website. Our sincere thanks to Mr Rintesh Roy for spearheading this initiative, and to the team — Nisha, Sharmila, and Terrymize — who worked diligently under the guidance of Dr. Sanghamitra (Hon. Secretary, IAPC) to bring this to life. We welcome your suggestions and feedback as we continue to improve the platform.
This month also brings several important updates on our courses and events. The Northeast Leadership Meet is planned to be held on 12 September in Meghalaya. Preparations for the World Hospice & Palliative Care Day International Conference being organised by IAPC and Alpha Palliative Care, are in their final stage. Please find details of these important programs in the Announcements / Messages Section of this newsletter.
Preparations for IAPCON 2027 are gathering momentum. Considering requests from IAPC members, the early bird registration deadline has been extended to 15 September 2026. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your registration at early bird rates. For non-members, do also look at the combo registration offer, which provides a subsidised rate to become an IAPC member and register for the conference together.
IAPC has announced grants to support delegates in participating in IAPCON 2027, along with exciting awards for conference presentations. Abstract submission is also open now! I urge you all to carefully read the Announcements / Messages section of this newsletter for full details on these important updates.
Do also join us in congratulating our colleagues and friends who have achieved significant milestones in their journey — IAPC celebrates their achievements through the Awards and Recognitions section of this newsletter.
I could not close this note without a prayer and an appeal to support our neighbours devastated by a natural calamity. More than 600 people have been confirmed dead in the wake of nature’s fury in our neighbouring country, Nepal, with several Indians also reported missing. Let us pray for and stand by our neighbours as they navigate this most difficult time.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and commitment to the cause of palliative care.
With warm regards,
Dr. Geeta Joshi
President
Indian Association of Palliative Care (IAPC)