News from NGSMIPS | Workshop on “Transforming Futures: Career Opportunities & Personality Development”

The Alumni Cell (NIPSAA Coordination Committee) in association with the Placement & Career Guidance Cell of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences organized a one-day workshop titled “Transforming Futures: Career Opportunities & Personality Development” on 16th February 2026. The program was convened by Dr. Ashwini M, Coordinator, Alumni Cell and Dr. Pallavi K, Coordinator, Placement & Career Guidance Cell. The workshop aimed to equip students with industry-oriented knowledge and essential soft skills required for professional success. Prof. (Dr) Marina Koland, Principal, welcomed the gathering and emphasized the importance of alumni engagement and industry exposure in shaping students’ careers. Prof. (Dr) Narayan Charyalu, HoD, QA & RA highlighted the growing scope of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance in the pharmaceutical sector and outlined the objectives of the workshop.

The morning session delivered by our alumnus Mr. Amit Myra, Associate Director, Head, RQS OPS India & Submission Management at Merck Specialities Pvt Ltd, Bangalore provided a comprehensive overview of Regulatory Affairs & Operations, focusing on regulatory submissions, documentation processes and global compliance requirements. He engaged the students in an extensive interactive Q&A session, where the students clarified doubts regarding regulatory submissions, dossier preparation and interview preparation.

The afternoon activity-based session on the “Power of Effective Communication” conducted by Mrs. Preethi Shettigar, Life Skill Trainer and Asst. Professor at Swastika National Business School focused on building self-confidence and developing a positive presence.

The workshop concluded successfully, providing students with valuable technical insights and essential personality development skills for their professional growth.

News from NGSMIPS | Webinar on “QbD Based Pharmaceutical Development”

The Department of Pharmaceutics, NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences organized a webinar on “QbD Based Pharmaceutical Development” on 29th January 2026 in the Seminar Hall, New Block, NGSMIPS to enhance awareness and understanding of Quality by Design (QbD) principles among postgraduates, research scholars, and faculty members. The session was delivered by Mr. Zaheer Abbas, Sr. Formulation Scientist, Pharmaceutical Technology & Development, AstraZeneca UK Limited, Macclesfield, England.

Mr. Abbas explained the concept of Quality by Design (QbD) and its significance in modern pharmaceutical development, emphasizing it as a systematic, science- and risk-based approach that builds quality into products from the early stages rather than relying solely on end-product testing. Guidance on writing a development protocol was provided, highlighting the importance of clear objectives, scientific rationale and appropriate risk assessment. The principles of QbD and reasons for its implementation such as reducing batch failures, minimizing recalls and addressing customer complaints were discussed, along with its role in ensuring high product quality assurance, improved process understanding and regulatory flexibility. The key elements of QbD, including QTPP, CQAs, CMAs and control strategy, were explained, followed by discussions on robust process design and tools such as risk assessment methods (RPN, Ishikawa diagram, FMEA), Design of Experiments (DoE) and Process Analytical Technology (PAT). The DoE stages planning, screening, optimization and verification were outlined and PAT was highlighted as a current industry trend with examples such as online mon itoring using NIR probes integrated with processing equipment like blenders.

The session concluded with an interactive question and answer segment, where students actively participated by raising queries, followed by a formal vote of thanks.

News from NGSMIPS | Workshop on Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)

The Department of Pharmacology, NGSMIPS organized a one-day hands-on workshop on “Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)” on 27th January 2026 in the Webinar Room, 1st Floor, New Block to strengthen research competence and enhance the statistical analysis skills of faculty members, postgraduates and research scholars. The program was designed to provide practical exposure to SPSS software, which is widely used for data analysis in pharmaceutical sciences, social sciences and healthcare research.

The workshop was conducted by Dr. Gururaja M P, Principal, Vivekananda Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Puttur. The session included a systematic introduction to SPSS, data entry and management, selection of appropriate statistical tests and interpretation of results. The hands-on approach adopted during the workshop enabled participants to apply statistical concepts to real-time research data, thereby helping them to improve their analytical skills.

Dr. Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS highlighted the importance of statistical tools in evidence-based research, publications and academic excellence. Dr. Prasanna Shama K, HoD, Pharmacology, emphasized the relevance of statistical software in pharmacological research and encouraged participants to effectively utilize SPSS in their research work. The workshop was coordinated by Dr. Ullas Prakash DSouza along with Dr. Rajesh K S.

News from NGSMIPS | WORKSHOP ON “SMART ANALYTICS WITH DOE, AUTOMATED DISSOLUTION AND ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY IN PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH”

The Department of Pharmaceutics, NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences organized a two-day workshop on “Smart Analytics with DoE, Automated Dissolution & Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy in Pharmaceutical Research” on 28th & 29th October 2025.

The inaugural session commenced with the formal introduction of the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr) Iddya Karunasagar, Advisor, Research & Patents, Nitte (DU) by Dr. Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS. This was followed by a brief address on the objectives & significance of the workshop by the Guest of Honor Dr. C S Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Iddya Karunasagar emphasized the importance of organizing workshops as value-added programs that enhance the professional and research competence of students. He encouraged participants to engage actively in such skill-based training programs that bridge academic learning with practical exposure. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ashwini M. The workshop was attended by students, research scholars, faculty members and participants from various neighboring colleges.

Dr. Sneh Priya, Assoc. Professor, Pharmaceutics organised the workshop.

News from NGSMIPS | NGSMIPS Celebrates 3rd National cGMP Day

NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences in collaboration with the Institution Innovation Council (IIC), Nitte DU celebrated the 3rd National cGMP Day on 10th October 2025 with the theme cGMP for Sustainable Quality The event brought together professionals from industry, academia and students to highlight the significance of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) in the pharmaceutical sector.

The formal event commenced with a prayer song by Ms. Krithi, I M.Pharm. (Dr.) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS introduced the guest speaker Dr. Premnath Shenoy, Sr. Associate, Lachman Consultants NY, USA (Former Director-QA, RA & Patient safety, AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited). Prof. (Dr.) R. Narayana Charyulu, HoD Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs, emphasized the significance and the need to adhere to the evolving cGMP and the ICH guidelines.

Dr. Premnath Shenoy conducted an insightful session on Schedule M, covering raw material warehousing, cleaning validation, manufacturing facilities and regulatory compliance, enriching the audience with crucial knowledge on quality and safety in pharmaceuticals. An e-poster competition was organized as part of the 3rd National cGMP Day featuring topics like cGMP compliance, data integrity, QbD and GMP violations. Dr. Muhammad Mubeen, Professor, P A College of Pharmacy, served as judge.

The event ended with a Q&A session during which students and professors received clarity for a lot of their queries. Dr. Shenoy donated five books authored by him to the college library. The event concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Prashanth Nayak.

News from NGSMIPS | World Pharmacists Day Celebration 2025-26

NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences celebrated World Pharmacists Day on 25th September 2025 at the University Auditorium, Paneer Campus. The theme for this year’s celebration, Think Health, Think Pharmacist, reflected the growing recognition of pharmacists as vital pillars of the healthcare system.

Prof. (Dr) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS welcomed the gathering. Chief Guest, Shri T P Sujith, Dy. Drug Controller, Regional Office of the Deputy Drugs Controller, Mangalore Division highlighted the pivotal roles & responsibilities of pharmacists in ensuring the rational use of medicines. He stressed the importance of professional ethics and the silent yet significant contribution of pharmacists in strengthening the healthcare delivery.

The Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) C. S. Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS, emphasized the importance of not only thinking like pharmacists but also acting like them, thereby translating professional knowledge into meaningful healthcare outcomes. He highlighted the significance of knowledge, expertise, and purposeful action in the profession.

Eminent Pharmacist, Mr. P Gurucharan Rao, Proprietor, Kusum Medicals emphasized the importance of accurate prescription reading and interpretation, drawing from his rich professional experience to illustrate how meticulous handling of prescriptions ensures patient safety and prevents errors in healthcare delivery. On this occasion Mr. Ritesh J Hegde, Proprietor, City Drug House, Mangalore and Mr. P Gurucharan Rao were felicitated in recognition of their outstanding service and dedication to the profession. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Prashant Nayak.

News from NGSMIPS | Freshers’ Day Celebration and Inauguration of the Student Council 2025-2026

The Freshers’ Day Celebration and Inauguration of the Student Council 2025-2026 of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences was held on 4th September 2025 at KS Hegde Auditorium. The program commenced with an invocation prayer by Ms. Neethal Lobo and Ms. Tanisha T. R, followed by a graceful welcome dance presented by Ms. Ila Kodical. This was followed by the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, symbolizing the beginning of a new journey. Prof. (Dr.) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS, formally welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of the day. The Chief Guest, Dr. Saral Thangam, CEO & Managing Director, Norwich Clinical Services, Bangalore, delivered an inspiring address, motivating the students to develop leadership qualities, embrace experiential learning and face challenges with determination. The Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr) Sandeep Rai, Dean K S Hegde Medical Academy, emphasized the importance of discipline, responsibility and holistic development in student life. The function was presided over by Prof. (Dr) CS Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS, who encouraged the freshers to actively participate in both academic and co-curricular activities, thereby contributing to the institution’s excellence.

The newly elected Student Council 2025-2026 was formally inaugurated and the members were presented with badges, marking the beginning of their tenure. The newly elected President Mr. Keith D’Cunha expressed gratitude for the responsibility entrusted and assured to carry out the duties with sincerity and dedication. Teachers’ Day was also celebrated on the occasion with a ceremonial cake cutting and heartfelt expressions of gratitude, honoring the invaluable contributions of the teachers.

The formal function concluded with the Vote of Thanks, delivered by Mr. Prashant Nayak.

Following the formal proceedings, the informal function began with a vibrant cultural program featuring contemporary dances and melodious musical performances by the students. The highlight of the session was the Mr. & Ms. Fresher contest, where the first-year students participated enthusiastically in multiple rounds, showcasing their creativity, confidence and talent. The event concluded with the crowning of Mr. Rihan and Ms. Greeshma as Mr. and Ms. Fresher 2025. This was followed by a fun ramp walk by the freshers, adding excitement and joy to the celebration.

News from NGSMIPS | Mentoring session on Prototype Validation - Converting Innovation into a Start-up and Raising capital and managing finance for a Start-up

The Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), NGSMIPS organized a mentoring session on “Prototype Validation – Converting Innovation into a Start-up and Raising Capital and Managing Finance for Start-ups” on 20th August 2025 at the Seminar Hall.

The event was graced by Dr. Nidhisha H, Asst. Professor, Justice K S Hegde Institute of Management, Nitte as Chief Guest and Dr. Nesara Kadanakuppe, Assoc. Prof., Nitte Institute of Communication as Guest of Honour. Dr. Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS presided over the event.

Session 1: Focused on prototype validation, scalability, market readiness and the role of mentorship and incubation. Session 2: Covered strategies for raising capital and managing start-up finances, including angel investment, venture capital, government schemes, risk management and compliance.

The program saw active participation of 75 students, faculty and research scholars, who appreciated the practical insights and interactive discussions. The event enhanced the entrepreneurial mindset of participants, boosted confidence in innovation and finance management, and aligned with IIC’s vision of fostering start-up culture. Dr. Manohar M and Dr. Mahendra G S of NGSMIPS coordinated the event.

News from NGSMIPS | Intensive Hands-On Training

NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (NGSMIPS), organized a two-day workshop on “Mastering HPLC: Intensive Hands-On Training” on 21st & 22nd August 2025 to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography.

Prof. (Dr.) C.S. Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS, was the Chief Guest. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Marina Koland delivered the welcome address. Dr. Hemnath Elango, Head of Research Operations, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Tamil Nadu, was the Guest of Honor and resource person. Dr. Mahendra G. S. proposed the vote of thanks.

Day 1 sessions introduced HPLC theory, system components and mobile phase concepts. Participants practiced preparing mobile phases, handling solvents and running standard samples. Practical exercises demonstrated the effect of solvent ratios on chromatograms.

Day 2 focused on HPLC method development, covering elution techniques, column selection, and parameter optimization. Participants designed and refined methods through systematic trials, compared results and finalized optimized methods. The workshop successfully blended theory with hands-on training, enhancing participants’ skills in HPLC for pharmaceutical research.

News from NGSMIPS | Orientation Program 2025-26

The Orientation Program for the newly admitted students of BPharm, DPharm, PharmD, and MPharm was held on 1st August 2025 at K S Hegde Auditorium, Deralakatte. The event aimed to warmly welcome the freshers and help them smoothly transition into their academic journey by familiarizing them with the institution’s vision, mission, resources, support and the exciting journey that lies ahead.

The programme began with an invocation to the almighty by Ankitha and Shruthi. Principal, Dr. Marina Koland welcomed the gathering and this was followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp.

Prof. (Dr.) C S Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS spoke about the critical role of research and innovation in pharmacy and how students can contribute to society by being responsible professionals and thinkers.

Chief Guest Prof. (Dr.) MS Moodithaya, Vice-Chancellor, Nitte (DU) highlighted the university’s mission, values and facilities. He mentioned that pharmacy is one of the premium programs offered by the University, and highlighted the University`s commitment to quality education and excellence in the healthcare sector.

Guest of Honour Prof. (Dr.) Harsha Halahalli, Registrar, Nitte DU focused on the scope and relevance of pharmacy as a profession, particularly in today’s rapidly evolving healthcare sector. He also outlined the academic and infrastructural facilities available to students at Nitte, highlighting the institution’s diverse and enriching academic environment.

Col B S Ghivari (Retd), Asst. Director (Student Affairs), Nitte DU elaborated about the hostel facilities highlighting that the hostel menu is thoughtfully planned to meet the nutritional requirements of students. He also emphasized that staying in the hostel teaches students valuable lessons in life such as adjustment, self-reliance, discipline and building bonds.

An interactive segment followed, providing parents and students the opportunity to share their experience. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Prashanth Nayak.

News from NGSMIPS | International Yoga Day

The NSS and Youth Red Cross Units of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences observed International Yoga Day on 20th June 2025. Dr. Rashmitha Shetty, Associate Professor at Alva’s College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences, Moodubidri, was the Chief Guest for the occasion.

Prof. (Dr) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS welcomed the gathering and briefed on the vital role of yoga in promoting holistic well-being, particularly in the context of rising stress levels and increasing environmental challenges.

Dr. Rashmitha Shetty delivered an insightful session on the benefits of yoga and the relevance of incorporating asanas into daily life. She also demonstrated a series of simple chair-based yoga practices suitable for the workplace.

Dr. Santanu Saha, NSS Programme Officer, NGSMIPS proposed the vote of thanks. The event was anchored by Dr. Amitha Shetty, Asst. Professor, NGSMIPS.

News from NGSMIPS | “Discover Nitte” – Inspiring Future Pharma Leaders through Institute-Industry Synergy

The Nitte Pharma Innovation Centre (NPIC) in collaboration with the Placement Cell, NGSMIPS organized “Discover Nitte”, a distinctive institute-industry engagement initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of pharmaceutical leaders, on 12th June 2025.

The event was graced by Dr. Sanjeev Giri, Sr. Vice President & Head of Early Development, Aurigene Oncology, Bengaluru, as the Chief Guest. The program commenced with a cordial welcome and opening remarks by Dr. C S Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS, who highlighted the institute’s strong commitment to fostering meaningful industry collaborations.

Dr. Giri delivered an insightful interaction session addressing key areas of collaboration between academia and the pharmaceutical industry. His discussion covered strategic domains like - Translational Research & Preclinical Studies, Drug Discovery & Development, Clinical Research and, Student and Faculty Development.

Dr. Shastry formally proposed the idea of a structured collaboration between NGSMIPS and Aurigene Oncology. Dr. Giri expressed his willingness for initiating a meaningful partnership encompassing the aforementioned focus areas. He emphasized the mutual value such collaboration could bring in terms of advancing research, capacity building and industry-aligned academic development. This intent would open exciting avenues for NGSMIPS to align its academic and research capabilities with industry-driven innovation.

Post the faculty engagement session, a vibrant Q&A session followed, where Dr. Giri interacted with postgraduates & PhD scholars, responding to their questions with openness and depth, while encouraging them to pursue meaningful careers in translational oncology and drug development.

Dr. Sanjeev Giri also visited the Medical & Dental colleges, the Oncology Department at KSHEMA, where he engaged in a focused discussion with Dr. Vijith Shetty and his colleagues on enhancing clinical trial capabilities. The visit was coordinated by Mr. Vivek Pai K., Placement Officer, NGSMIPS.

News from NGSMIPS | Vanamahotsava - World Environment Day Celebration

The NSS and Youth Red Cross (YRC) units of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, organized Vanamahotsava on the occasion of World Environment Day 2025 on 5th June 2025 to raise awareness about environmental protection and inspire a sense of responsibility among participants to safeguard nature.

Prof. (Dr.) Suma Ballal, Dy. Registrar, Nitte University was the Chief Guest and the function was presided over by Prof. (Dr) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS. Both the dignitaries emphasized the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices. The celebration involved planting of saplings by the dignitaries, NSS program officers, staff members and enthusiastic student volunteers.

The event was coordinated by Dr. Santanu Saha and Dr. Ashwini M, NSS Programme Officers of NGSMIPS. The Vanamahotsava celebration highlighted the NSS unit’s continued commitment to social and environmental causes. The programme aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

News from NGSMIPS | SAFAR - Ek Nayi Manzil

NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences organized a memorable farewell function, "SAFAR - Ek Nayi Manzil" on 4th April 2025, at K S Hegde Auditorium to bid farewell to the outgoing batches of DPharm, BPharm, MPharm and PharmD.

Prof. (Dr.) Marina Koland, Principal, NGSMIPS, delivered the welcome address and introduced the Chief Guest. She highlighted the students’ academic journey, their growth, and the role of NGSMIPS in shaping their future and wished them great success in their future pursuits.

Mr. Prasanna Kailaje, Chief Guest of the event emphasized the importance of embracing challenges, lifelong learning and maintaining a spirit of integrity & humility, as the students step into a new phase of life.

The function was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) CS Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS. He extended his best wishes to the outgoing batches and encouraged them to uphold the values instilled during their academic tenure at NGSMIPS.

The Best Outgoing Students were honoured for their achievements and contributions. Students took the opportunity to share their heartfelt experiences, expressing gratitude to their mentors, classmates and the institution, for the guidance and support throughout their academic journey. As a token of remembrance, photo frames were presented to the outgoing students, marking the occasion with fond memories to cherish.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Prashant Nayak, Coordinator of the function.

News from NGSMIPS | SPARC - Workshop on Advanced Functional Materials and Applications

The Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry of NGSMIPS organized a one-day workshop on Advanced Functional Materials and their Applications on 21st April 2025 sponsored by Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC). The workshop covered various disciplines like nanotechnology, material science, physics, bio-inorganic chemistry and brought together experts, researchers and students to discuss latest developments and key issues in the field.

The inaugural function was graced by Chief guest, Prof. Sundaram Gunasekaran, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA. Dr. Harishkumar Madhyastha, University of Miyazaki, Japan was the Guest of honor. Prof. (Dr) CS Shastry, Director (Research & Strategic Initiatives), NGSMIPS welcomed the SPARC project members. Dr. B C Revanasiddappa, Principal Investigator of the project shared interesting insights on the genesis and objectives of the SPARC program. Dr. Marina Koland, Principal highlighted the importance of the functional materials and their relevance in the research field.

The scientific sessions were enlightening, with Prof. Gunasekaran delivering important note about the nanozymes and sanozymes and their applications in current research. Dr. Santosh Tiwari, Associate Professor of Chemistry at NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte delivered a talk on new materials and advanced functional materials in the field of biological sciences. Prof. Krishnamoorthi K, Computer Science & Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence & machine learning in the field of pharmacy. He also mentioned the various applications of machine learning and retrieval of data from these tools. The last session was covered by Dr. Madhyastha, emphasizing on nanomaterials in the field of biomedicine and characterization of various nanomaterials and the biological complications of these materials in the human body.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. K Ishwar Bhat, Professor, Pharmaceutical Chemistry.

News from NGSMIPS | Maintaining AC Temperature between 24°- 26° C

The NSS unit of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences organized an enlightening guest lecture by Air Commodore Sunil K Pai (Retd), Dy. Director (Estate Management), Nitte University on the topic ‘Awareness to maintain AC temperature between 24°-26°C’. The session held on 25th April 2025 was coordinated by Dr. Santanu Saha & Dr. Ashwini M.

Dr. Santanu Saha introduced the guest. The lecture focused on understanding air conditioning systems, with particular emphasis on the compressor. Air Commodore Pai explained that compressors operate using electricity & coolant, citing R-410A as an environmentally friendly gas that does not deplete the ozone layer. However, he noted that R-410A still has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) and can contribute to climate change if released into the atmosphere. He discussed factors affecting electricity consumption, including room volume, occupancy, presence of heat-producing appliances, and insulation quality.

A major takeaway was the misconception about lower temperatures leading to faster cooling. He clarified that setting the AC at 18°C strains the compressor, increases electricity consumption and leads to faster degradation. On the other hand, setting the AC at 24°C ensures efficient cooling with lesser energy consumption, as the thermostat switches the compressor off once the desired temperature is reached, minimizing electricity spikes.

He highlighted the Government of India’s recommendation through BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) for a default setting of 24°-26°C. Additionally, the lecture emphasized the importance of annual servicing and encouraged everyone to plant a sapling every year as a contribution to the environment.

News from NGSMIPS | Poshan Pakhwada

The NSS unit of NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences visited De Mercede Orphanage at Deralakatte on 23rd April 2025. Prof. (Dr) Marina Koland, Principal along with Dr. Santanu Saha, NSS officer, staff members and students visited the orphanage and actively participated in the event. Dr. Koland emphasized the importance of making healthy food choices and the benefits of consuming nutritious food. The students of the institution interacted with the residents of the orphanage, highlighting the nutritional value and health benefits of a wholesome diet, as well as the significance of maintaining hygiene in cooking and while consuming food.

News from NGSMIPS | Upskilling & Certification Program of LSSSDC under PMKVY 4.0

The Upskilling & Certification Program of the Life Sciences Sector Skill Development Council (LSSSDC) under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0: “Pharmacovigilance - Case Processing (Incidents/Adverse events using software including AI tools)” was successfully conducted from 10th to 14th March 2025 at NGSMIPS in collaboration with the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), New Delhi, Karnataka State Pharmacy Council (KSPC), Bengaluru and LSSSDC. The curriculum combined theoretical learning with hands-on experience, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of pharmacovigilance.

Prof. (Dr) A N Parameswaran, Director, Institute Industry Collaboration, Nitte DU was the Chief Guest. Guests of Honor included Prof. (Dr) Saleemulla Khan, Central Council Member, PCI & Principal, PA College of Pharmacy, Mangaluru; Prof. (Dr) Jagadish V. Kamath, Nominated Member, KSPC & Principal, Shree Devi College of Pharmacy, Mangaluru and Prof. (Dr) C S Shastry, Director (Research & SIs), NGSMIPS, Mangaluru.

The training was led by Dr. Uday Venkat Mateti, Associate Professor, Pharmacy Practice, NGSMIPS. A total of 31 registered pharmacists of KSPC participated in this program. Participants were trained in essential topics such as adverse event identification and case processing, along with hands-on experience using a leading pharmacovigilance tool like VigiFlow. The program also explored cutting-edge AI applications in signal detection and automation. Practical case studies were incorporated to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world problem-solving. Participants were introduced to AI-enabled software for signal detection & data mining, enhancing their ability to analyze and manage pharmacovigilance data effectively. Further, the training included case study analysis, enabling participants to develop risk management strategies based on real-world scenarios. The program also included a simulation of regulatory reporting processes, allowing pharmacists to practice filling out forms and generating reports in compliance with international regulatory standards including those established by the FDA, EMA, CDSCO and PvPI-IPC.

The Upskilling and Certification Program aimed to equip pharmacists with the necessary skills to identify, report and manage adverse drug events using advanced software and AI tools. Through this training, participants gained valuable expertise in modern pharmacovigilance practices, preparing them for more efficient and effective roles in drug safety and regulatory compliance. The final assessment, conducted on 14th March 2025, evaluated participants through multiple-choice questions (MCQs), oral viva and practical exams, overseen by Mr. Venkataramana Aigal, Assessor from Team IRIS-Corp, Bangalore. This comprehensive training program successfully equipped pharmacy professionals with the skills necessary to enhance patient safety through effective drug safety monitoring and regulatory compliance in the evolving pharmaceutical landscape.