The eighth session of the year-long Ritwik Japan programme by The Liver Foundation, West Bengal focused on "Ritwik and Time." Dr. Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay reflected on time as a lived historical and human experience, while Prof. Manas Ghosh (Jadavpur University) discussed Ritwik Ghatak's enduring influence across cinema and other disciplines. The programme concluded with the screening of the completed version of Ghatak's documentary Ramkinkar, followed by an interaction with Gokul Sarkar and Abhijit Goswami, who shared insights into its completion.

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The seventh session of Ritwik Japan, organised by The Liver Foundation, West Bengal, was held on 4 June, featuring discussions on the shared humanistic vision of Ritwik Ghatak and Ramkinkar Baij. Dr. Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay and Dr. Abhijit Chowdhury highlighted the programme's continuing cultural journey, while artist-scholar Anindyakanti Biswas and Prof. Abdul Kafi explored Ramkinkar's artistic legacy and Ghatak's Subarnarekha. The programme also included a screening of Ghatak's documentary on Ramkinkar Baij, an audio tribute to Nabarun Bhattacharya, and a special display of sculptures by Ramkinkar Baij and Ritwik Ghatak.

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The sixth session of Ritwik Japan, organised by The Liver Foundation, West Bengal, was held on 4 May, continuing the year-long celebration of Ritwik Ghatak's Birth Centenary despite adverse weather and the state election atmosphere. Dr. Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay and Dr. Abhijit Chowdhury reflected on the enduring relevance of Ghatak's artistic vision, while eminent theatre director and actor Sohini Sengupta shared personal insights into his films and creative legacy. The programme concluded with poetry recitations by Swapna Dey, featuring works by Birendra Chattopadhyay, Premendra Mitra and Ritwik Ghatak.

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The fifth session of Ritwik Japan, organised by The Liver Foundation, West Bengal, was held on 4 April at the proposed University of Human and Health Sciences campus. The programme opened with a Rabindra Sangeet performance by Alokananda Ray, followed by an insightful lecture by Prof. Anindya Sengupta (Jadavpur University), who explored Ritwik Ghatak's unique cinematic language, editing style and social vision. The interactive discussion with the audience enriched the session, fostering deeper appreciation of Ghatak's enduring artistic legacy.

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The monthly Ritwik Japan programme of The Liver Foundation, West Bengal continued its year-long tribute to filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak, featuring reflections by Dr. Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay and Dr. Abhijit Chowdhury on preserving his creative legacy. Eminent theatre critic Shamik Bandyopadhyay delivered the keynote lecture, sharing rare insights into Ghatak's life, cinema and theatre through personal memories and historical perspectives. The programme concluded with a musical tribute by Abhik Mukhopadhyay, celebrating Bengal's rich folk heritage.

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The first Popular Science Talk on Machine Learning, organised by the Bigyanbhash team, was held on 30 January 2026 at Briddhi Hall, Kolkata, as part of its ongoing lecture series. Prof. Kuntal Ghosh of the Machine Intelligence Unit, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) delivered an engaging lecture exploring pattern recognition, the evolution of computing, neural networks, and the historical foundations of machine learning beyond the popular notion of "artificial intelligence." The session successfully promoted scientific temper, critical thinking, and a deeper public understanding of the science behind intelligent systems.

As part of its Public Health Support for Communities in the Sundarbans project, the Liver Foundation, West Bengal (LFWB) organized Community Health Festival at Hingalganj on 21 Dec, 2025, promoting preventive healthcare, nutrition and emergency preparedness through interactive community engagement. The festival featured three key stalls on nutrition, emergency care and health & hygiene. Nursing students, Self-Help Group (SHG) members, Rural Health Care Programme (RHCP) representatives and local students demonstrated affordable nutritious foods, basic life-saving skills, BMI and blood pressure screening, and healthy lifestyle practices. The model was later replicated at Kultali in South 24 Parganas and Chinpai in Birbhum by the Consortium for Rural Healthcare Providers' Welfare. The initiative demonstrated the potential of community-led health festivals to strengthen health awareness and preventive care in rural areas.

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The Indian Institute of Liver and Digestive Sciences (IILDS), in collaboration with Sun Pharma and Sygnus, hosted a high-impact session, "Protect Liver, Preserve Life," at Taj Vivanta, Kolkata. This 360-degree dialogue on Liver and digestive Diseases featured a multidisciplinary approach, covering genetic markers, public health, and surgical interventions. Renowned experts—including Prof. Abhijit Chowdhury, Dr Dipankar Mondal, Dr Phalguni Hota, Dr Souvik Mitra, Dr Srijan Majumdar, Dr Kishalaya, and Dr Chandan Chatterjee from IILDS—led sessions for an audience of medical professionals and sales experts. The event underscored IILDS's commitment to innovation and education in the fight for a liver and digestive-disease-free India.

To commemorate the birth centenary of legendary filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak, Liver Foundation, West Bengal organized a 10-day multidisciplinary exhibition, "Ritwik Japon", at the proposed campus of the University of Health & Human Sciences. Inaugurated by Ritwik Ghatak's son, Ritaban Ghatak, the exhibition featured eight thematic installations inspired by Ghatak's landmark films, exploring themes of Partition, identity, displacement and social justice. Bringing together artists, filmmakers and scholars, the event celebrated Ghatak's enduring legacy while reinforcing the Foundation's vision of integrating humanities with health and society.

The Liver Foundation, West Bengal, successfully organized a Community Health Festival on 26 October 2025 at Gobindokati Agrodut Sangha Ground in Hingalganj Block, Sundarbans, as part of its community public health support initiative. The festival promoted preventive healthcare, nutrition awareness, emergency medical preparedness and community participation through a range of health education and capacity-building activities.

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The communication teams of IILDS, CINHS and LFWB have revived Soul, the organization's monthly newsletter, originally launched in 2008–09 but later discontinued due to operational constraints. The newsletter was relaunched in September and has since been published regularly every month. By January 2026, five editions had been released, featuring articles, photographs, artworks and poetry contributed by LFWB members from across its various units.

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Dr. Dilip Mahalanabis pioneered community-based health solutions, with his work on oral rehydration solution saving millions of lives from cholera-related diarrhoea. In his memory, LFWB's annual memorial oration honours national leaders whose contributions have transformed public health. The third oration was delivered by Dr. Gagandeep Kang, Director of Global Health at the Gates Foundation, who led the development of India's rotavirus vaccine. Reflecting on her experience, she underscored the importance of integrating research, public policy and public health to improve healthcare outcomes.

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Academicians, researchers, university leaders and communication experts from India and abroad convened for a brainstorming session to chart the roadmap for the proposed University of Health & Human Sciences, envisioned to address emerging disciplines such as climate change, medical law and ethics, behavioural science and performing arts. The session was inaugurated virtually by Dr. Abhijit V. Banerjee and attended by eminent personalities including Mr. Subroto Bagchi, Dr. Gagandeep Kang, Prof. Chandan Sen, Dr. Mahesh Rangarajan and Dr. Souvik Bhattacharya.

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Dr. Chandrakant Patil has been a guiding light for LFWB, whose community initiatives continue to be shaped by his philosophy. The Centre for Integrated Nutrition and Health Sciences (CINHS) was established in his memory, and this year launched an annual memorial lecture on its Foundation Day. The inaugural lecture was delivered by Dr. Abhijit Chowdhury, who reflected on LFWB's association with Dr. Patil and highlighted his enduring legacy as an inspiration for all health professionals.

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On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, a vibrant rally was organized by Liver Foundation, West Bengal, in collaboration with the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program. Despite heavy rain, over 500 determined participants marched from Outram Road to Esplanade’s Y-Channel, symbolizing resilience and unity under the green and white umbrellas of change. The rally aimed to spread awareness about viral hepatitis and support the global NoHep initiative, advocating for a hepatitis-free future. A significant highlight of the event was the participation of 23 schools, whose students took a collective pledge to protect themselves and others from this silent yet serious health threat. The spirited turnout and unwavering enthusiasm, even in challenging weather, emphasized the community’s commitment to the cause. The event powerfully reinforced the message: when the mission is just, not even the skies can hold us back.

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The Liver Foundation West Bengal celebrated its 20th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and reverence at Tegh Bahadur Hospital (IILDS Unit 2). The event was graced by several renowned personalities from various fields, who gathered to mark two decades of dedicated service and impactful work in the field of liver health and public welfare. The program commenced with a heartfelt sharing of memories and reflections on the Foundation’s remarkable journey by Dr. Abhijit Chowdhury and Dr. Partha Sarathi Mukherjee. Their speeches highlighted key milestones, challenges overcome, and the collaborative efforts that shaped the organization’s legacy. Following the formal proceedings, a vibrant cultural program was held, featuring performances that added a festive spirit to the occasion and brought together staff, guests, and well-wishers in celebration. The event was a testament to the Foundation's enduring commitment to healthcare, community service, and holistic well-being.

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The Cycle Rally, held as part of NASH Day 2025, was more than an awareness drive—it symbolized a collective move towards preventive healthcare. Starting from IILDS Hospital and concluding at Natagachi, the proposed site for the University of Human Sciences, the rally emphasized that healing often begins with movement, community, and informed choices. Fatty liver disease, though often silent, is preventable and reversible through active living and mindful nutrition. The rally served as a powerful reminder of this message. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, the Sonarpur and Baruipur Police, the IILDS team, and the dignitaries whose presence and support made the event safe and successful. The vision for a university where Pleasure of Involvement (POI) outweighs Return on Investment (ROI) was proudly echoed throughout the day.

The expansion of healthcare services by the Indian Institute of Liver and Digestive Sciences (IILDS), Sonarpur, to central Kolkata was marked by the inauguration of a new day-care facility at Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, Bhabanipur. The hospital, located at 11 D.L. Khan Road near SSKM Hospital, was revitalized after a decade-long hiatus through a collaborative effort between IILDS, Liver Foundation West Bengal, and Gurdwara Sant Kutiya Kolkata. A ceremonial ‘Set on Sail’ event was organized on World Health Day, 7th April 2025, at 5:00 PM, to celebrate the partnership. Distinguished guests, including Swami Bodhasarananda (Chief Guest), Dr. SP Singh Oberoi (Guest of Honour), and Prof. Uday G. Zachariah (Special Guest), were honored for their presence. Gratitude was extended to donors, well-wishers, and the dedicated team whose support ensured the realization of this initiative, which reaffirmed the commitment to affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare for all.

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The event, organized by Liver Foundation West Bengal, The West Bengal Chapter of the Association of Surgeons of India, and the West Bengal Orthopaedic Association, marked International Mother Language Day with a thought-provoking discussion on the significance of using a patient’s native language in medical practice. Held on February 21, 2025, at 5 PM at the Nehru Children's Museum Auditorium in Kolkata, the session emphasized the necessity of clear and empathetic communication between doctors and patients. The theme, "Let the prescription be written in the language of the patient’s recovery," highlighted the importance of linguistic inclusivity in healthcare to enhance patient understanding and comfort. Medical professionals, researchers, and healthcare advocates gathered to exchange insights on how native language usage in medical consultations can improve healthcare accessibility and foster better patient outcomes. The discussion underscored the role of language as a bridge between medical expertise and patient care, advocating for a more humane and patient-centric approach in medical interactions.

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The Liver Foundation West Bengal hosted a successful annual meeting of the Hepatitis Patient Forum on January 23rd at the Indian Institute of Liver and Digestive Sciences Sonarpur auditorium. The event featured a unique exhibition showcasing an array of colorful handicrafts created by hepatitis patients themselves. This inspiring display celebrated the patients' creativity, resilience, and determination. The meeting provided a supportive platform for patients, families, and healthcare professionals to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. We are grateful for the enthusiastic participation of all attendees and look forward to future events.

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9th Kolkata Liver Meeting was organized at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre Exhibition Hall between 12th and 14th December, 2024. The conference was attended by 450 dignitaries. Eminent hepatologists and researchers convened to discuss the latest innovations.

The research activities of “John C Martin Centre for Liver Research and Innovations” were carrying on with competent guidance of the Asstt. Professors and Senior Scientists, in a part of our hospital building. On December 11th 2024, the new building of JCMLRI was inaugurated and became functional with support of the grant, approved by John C. Martin Foundation of USA. Madam Lillian Lou on behalf of JCM Foundation attended the inauguration program. Dr.Henry Masur, Dr.Heiner Wedemeyer, Dr. R Rabi Kannan, Prof.Arun Sanyal and many other national and international dignitaries were present to grace the occasion.

2nd Dilip Mahalanabis Oration organized at Ashutosh Birth Centenary Hall. Padmashri Abhay Bang, Founder of SEARCH (Society For Education, Action and Research in Community Health). Dr. Bang took the audience through his journey of working with the people and emphasized the subtle, but critical aspects of Public Health.

1st Kolkata Nursing Conference on 12th September 2024 at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium. The event was organized by CINHS. The Conference was attended by National and International Faculties and was attended by Nursing community of the entire West Bengal. The conference emphasized on the need of Nursing workforce to actively engage in Research, while focusing on the dearth of healthcare worker including nursing personnel at the national , regional and local levels.

28th July 2024 was marked as the World Hepatitis Day with a rally organized from Park Street crossing up to Metro Channel. The joint program of LFWB and NVHCP was organized which included an awareness rally in Kolkata on viral hepatitis among the students, health workers and other community members in the city. Emphasis was given to improving testing and eradication of stigma associated with the viral hepatitis. A highlight of the initiative was the rally and open-air program, which saw significant community participation. The rally was organized to create a visual and vocal impact, drawing attention to the cause. The active participation of students, healthcare professionals, celebrities, and media ensured widespread dissemination of information. Participants were all marching together with banners and placards conveying key messages about hepatitis awareness. The open-air program featured speeches from health experts, and testimonials from hepatitis survivors to engage the audience. The event emphasized the importance of hepatitis testing, vaccination, and treatment. The involvement of Kolkata Police and their initiatives added a layer of community support, enhancing the reach and impact of the campaign. Media coverage played a crucial role in amplifying the event's message beyond the immediate attendees.