Viewpoints

Indian Pediatrics 2002; 39:444-445 

XXXIX Annual Conference of IAP

The recently concluded IAP Conference at Bangalore was the largest ever, attended by over 5000 delegates, many with their families. For those from North India the weather was very clement and quite a few of them went off to tour the South. Overall, a lot of fun was had by the majority!

There are several difficulties when holding very large conferences with inadequate infrastructure. Some of the problems with the Bangalore conference were mentioned by a delegate at the valedictory function (such as tremendous overcrowding, small lecture rooms where only a few could get in, overwhelming rush at exhibition stalls, no place to rest). Her lone critical voice sounded a discordant note and her valid comments were considered very inappropriate for the occasion. Subsequently, many delegates forcefully praised the efforts of the Organizing Committee. One could hardly do otherwise knowing that a large group of our colleagues - some very senior - had toiled for months to organize the conference. The IAP Secretary General profusely praised every member of the Organizing Committee with generous remarks and usual cliches (e.g., behind every successful man is his wife, and behind her is his girl friend!), which we have heard on many previous occasions. The valedictory function ended happily with much goodwill and cheer.

For the past several years the shortcomings of large meetings have been very obvious to all of us. Constructive criticisms and suggestions have been made on numerous occasions but that has not made any difference. The pattern of the IAPCON has been set. No improvement appears possible and in fact with ever increasing number of delegates the difficulties are bound to get worse. The IAPCONs, like some other big meetings (e.g., Association of Physicians of India’s Conference), have become chiefly social occasions with a mela or carnival like ambience. It is not improbable that many delegates enjoy the gaiety and entertainment. The social interaction and renewal of friendships are undoubtedly important in a big country like India. However, that must not become the sole purpose of IAPCON. A good number of delegates, especially from smaller towns, come chiefly for the academic aspects, to listen and learn and update their knowledge, but return bitterly disappointed. Whereas physical discomforts and poor alimentary amenities can be overlooked to a large extent, there can be absolutely no defense if the arrangements for scientific sessions are inadequate.

It is quite clear that no city in India has proper facilities to hold a large scientific conference of perhaps more than 2000 delegates. Given that limitation there is a case of restricting the number of delegates, for which some formula can be devised. The venue of IAPCON can be limited to 3-4 cities, and if these could be selected for the next 5 years, the delegates could choose when and where to attend. The organization of the conference should be entrusted to professional agencies, which would handle every aspect except preparation of the scientific program. They would be held accountable for any shortcomings and taken to task for that. It is a mistake to assume that a very large conference can be managed by a group of non-professionals, no matter how well-meaning and dedicated, when the infrastructure is grossly insufficient. The scientific program should be prepared by the IAP Scientific Committee and NOT just left to the IAP President, Secretary General, and the local Organizing Secretary. The academic expectations of the delegates take precedence over everything else and must be met with. Guest lecturers - foreign or Indian - and their topics should be carefully chosen.

The IAP should consider if IAPCON could be held once in two years. In the alternate years the Zonal/State conferences (strengthened and upgraded) would take place. Presently a large number of these meetings are compressed during the 3-4 months of winter, which makes very little sense. The IAPCONs would probably carry on as at present (for several reasons!) but the latter can have more focused programs and closer interactions, which is after all the purpose of scientific meetings.