A two-day Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) 2025 programme commenced on December 11, 2025, at the Artificial Limb Centre (ALC) in Pune, inaugurated by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS). The event aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among rehabilitation experts, clinicians, researchers, and professionals from various disciplines across the country, all focused on advancements in amputee care and rehabilitation.
During the inauguration, Vice Admiral Sarin, accompanied by Lt Gen Pankaj P. Rao, the Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) and Colonel Commandant of the Army Medical Corps (AMC), launched several key initiatives designed to enhance knowledge dissemination and innovation within the field. These included a 3D-printed memento to commemorate the event, the quarterly newsletter titled STRIDE, and a comprehensive Patient Compendium aimed at documenting best practices in prosthetics and rehabilitation sciences.
The commandant of ALC Pune welcomed attendees and set the tone for the programme by introducing this year’s theme, “Improving Outcomes in Amputee Rehabilitation.” The emphasis was placed on integrating advanced technologies and patient-centric strategies to enhance the quality of life for individuals with limb loss.
A significant moment of the event was the keynote address delivered by Ms Sminu Jindal, a prominent industry leader and advocate for accessibility. She underscored the critical need for inclusive infrastructure, innovative solutions, and supportive policies to elevate rehabilitation standards throughout the nation.
One of the most impressive developments announced was the inauguration of a cutting-edge Additive Manufacturing Lab at ALC. This new facility, equipped with state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, is anticipated to revolutionize the field of prosthetic fabrication by improving precision, efficiency, and accessibility. This advancement is expected to provide customized rehabilitation solutions for both defense personnel and civilians, marking a significant progress in the field.
The CRE 2025 programme will feature a series of technical sessions, expert lectures, and hands-on workshops aimed at fostering innovation and improving rehabilitation outcomes across India. The collaborative efforts displayed during the event reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the standards of care for amputees and integrating modern technology into rehabilitation practices.
