Date: 15–16 February 2025
Theme: Physiotherapy: Revolutionizing Care Through Technology and Autonomy

The Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP), established in 1955, is the only recognized governing body in India that represents, regulates, and advances the interests of physiotherapists. Through its initiatives, IAP sets professional standards, promotes scientific research, and supports innovations in physiotherapy practice. Over the years, the association has organized numerous national and international conferences, continuing to strengthen the profession on a global platform.

The 62nd IAP National Conference, held in Nashik on 15–16 February 2025, was a landmark event. The conference focused on the evolving role of physiotherapy in the modern healthcare landscape with the theme “Physiotherapy: Revolutionizing Care Through Technology and Autonomy.”

The event featured:

• Expert workshops on emerging practices
• Keynote presentations from leading professionals
• Panel discussions on technological advancements including Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Tele-rehabilitation

Distinguished Guests & Contributors

• Shri Satyajeet Tambe, esteemed politician, social entrepreneur, and Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, graced the event. His presence emphasized the crucial role of political support in advancing healthcare initiatives and modernizing physiotherapy services.
• Dr. Sanjeev K. R. Jha, President of IAP, significantly contributed to the conference by leading discussions on professional growth, autonomy, and the future of physiotherapy in India.
• Dr. Ruchi Varshney (PT), National Head of the IAP Women’s Cell (IAPWC), played a pivotal role in organizing the conference. She highlighted the importance of women’s leadership and empowerment within the physiotherapy profession.

The conference also celebrated and honored several scientific delegates for their exceptional contributions to research, innovation, and academic advancement in physiotherapy.

---

Awards Won by Dean Sir for Exceptional Leadership and Contributions to Education

Awards and Recognitions Received by Dean Sir – Dr. G. Varadharajulu

At the 62nd IAP National Conference, the esteemed Dr. G. Varadharajulu, Dean of Krishna College of Physiotherapy, was honored with three distinguished recognitions for his exemplary leadership, professional excellence, and remarkable contributions to Physiotherapy education and clinical practice.

1. Best Principal Award – Maharashtra

Dr. Varadharajulu received the prestigious Best Principal Award, a state-level honor celebrating exceptional academic leaders.
This award recognizes principals who:

• Demonstrate visionary and dynamic leadership
• Uphold academic excellence and integrity
• Inspire both faculty and students through innovation and mentorship
• Implement modern, student-centered educational practices
• Promote holistic development, research culture, and community engagement

This distinguished accolade acknowledges the profound impact Dr. Varadharajulu has made in shaping a progressive, future-ready learning environment.

---

2. Senior Physiotherapist Award

The Senior Physiotherapist Award was bestowed upon Dr. Varadharajulu for his decades-long dedication to patient care, rehabilitation excellence, and the advancement of the physiotherapy profession.

This award honors senior clinicians who:

• Demonstrate exemplary expertise in diagnosis and rehabilitation
• Apply innovative, evidence-based treatment approaches
• Contribute significantly to professional development and clinical education
• Mentor the next generation of physiotherapists
• Advance the profession through leadership and research

Dr. Varadharajulu’s extensive clinical experience and contributions continue to inspire practitioners across the country.

---

3. Panelist Recognition – Recent Advances in Stroke Rehabilitation

Dr. Varadharajulu served as an esteemed Panelist alongside Dr. Sanjeev Kumar and Mr. Arup Biswas in the session titled:
“Rewiring the Brain: Recent Advances in Stroke Rehabilitation.”

The session explored:

• Cutting-edge developments in stroke recovery
• The science of neuroplasticity
• Innovative therapeutic interventions
• Personalized rehabilitation strategies improving patient outcomes

His participation added invaluable clinical and academic insights, enriching the conference discourse and contributing to advancements in stroke rehabilitation practices.

Awards Won by Academic Delegates

Dr. S. Anandh

Scientific Committee Member:
Dr. Anandh evaluated 15 PhD research papers in the Women’s Health and Community category and coordinated the Community PhD presentations at the 62nd IAP National Conference.

Best Paper Presentation Award:
He received the Best Paper Presentation Award (Senior Category) for his innovative and impactful research in community-based physiotherapy.

Dr. Suraj Kanase

Executive Committee Member – Maharashtra State IAP:
Dr. Suraj Kanase, an esteemed Executive Committee Member of the Maharashtra State IAP, played a key role in advancing professional standards and supporting various initiatives in the physiotherapy community. His contributions were instrumental in the success of the 62nd IAP National Conference held in Nashik.

Scientific Committee Member:
At the 62nd IAP National Conference, Dr. Kanase, along with co-judge Prof. Dr. Srikrishna from Nashik, evaluated 25 research papers in the Neurophysiotherapy Postgraduate category. Their expert assessment ensured a rigorous and fair review process, recognizing high-quality postgraduate research in neurophysiotherapy.

Dr. Mandar Malawade

Scientific Committee Member:
Dr. Mandar Malawade, along with his co-judge, evaluated 20 research papers in the Paediatrics Neurophysiotherapy category at the 62nd IAP National Conference. He also coordinated the Neurophysiotherapy paper presentations. His meticulous assessment ensured a smooth review process, maintaining high scientific standards and recognizing exceptional postgraduate research in the field of physiotherapy.

Dr. Smita Patil

Scientific Committee Member:
Dr. Smita Patil, along with her co-judge, evaluated 25 research papers in the Postgraduate Musculoskeletal category at the 62nd IAP National Conference. Their expertise ensured a thorough and rigorous review process, maintaining high scientific standards and acknowledging outstanding postgraduate research in musculoskeletal physiotherapy.

Dr. Satyam Bhodaji

Scientific Committee Member:
Dr. Satyam Bhodaji, along with his co-judge, evaluated 20 research posters in the Undergraduate category, conducted online during the 62nd National Conference of IAP. Their expertise and detailed assessment ensured a rigorous review process, maintaining high scientific standards and recognizing exceptional undergraduate research.

Scientific Award:
Dr. Satyam Bhodaji was honored with the Best Paper Presentation Award in the PhD category for his educational research on community-based physiotherapy. His study was applauded for its strong research depth, practical relevance, and potential impact on community health practices. This award recognizes his commitment to advancing physiotherapy education and contributing significantly to community healthcare innovation.

College Award

The 62nd National IAP Conference, held in Nashik, Maharashtra, witnessed active participation from Krishna College of Physiotherapy. A total of 170 students and 8 academic faculty members attended the prestigious event.

Faculty members presented their scientific research across various categories, while students enthusiastically participated in scientific paper and poster presentations, along with several cultural activities organized by the Indian Association of Physiotherapy.

The remarkable participation and achievements by both faculty and students brought great pride to the institution and highlighted the college’s strong commitment to academic excellence, research, and co-curricular enrichment.