Reflections From Previous Post Graduates

Reflections From Previous Post Graduates

Dr. Vineeth Jaison, now Professor of Neurology and Lead of the Neuromuscular division in the Department of Neurology at CMCL, was the first neurology resident to be trained in the program. Since then, the program has trained numerous neurologists who have made a significant impact both nationally and globally.

Dr Vineeth Jaison (2012-2015)

Training in Neurology at CMC Ludhiana taught me many skills. The regular academics kept me on my toes and exposed me to a wide variety of literature. The rigorous case discussions made me confident to work up cases efficiently and defend my diagnosis effectively. The electrophysiology training in EEG was excellent and the hands-on learning of EMG, Autonomic function testing and sleep lab was excellent. Working with Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian gave me exposure to global thought and how to stay ahead of the changing times. Dr. Yashpal taught me the value of understanding the disease in its social context. Dr. Alex Abraham gave me excellent clinical skills and bedside understanding. Spending two months in CMC Vellore (Psychiatry, Neurosurgery, Pathology and Neurology) and two weeks in Sree Chitra (epilepsy and movement disorders) was a memorable experience which enriched the exposure I had at CMC Ludhiana. I won the young investigator award at World Stroke Congress in 2014. This was purely due to the brilliant research capacity established by Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian in Stroke. Overall, I am very grateful to my alma mater in setting the trajectory for my future

Dr Smriti Bose (2014-2017):

I completed my DM Neurology residency at CMC Ludhiana between 2014 to 2017 and remember it as a rigorous academic training programme committed to evidence-based clinical neurology. The faculty were invested in our development as ethical and empathetic individuals made holistic with a sound knowledge of neurology. The supportive environment fostered strong camaraderie among peers, leading to lasting friendships. The program instilled a research-oriented mindset, providing excellent exposure. CMC Ludhiana’s DM Neurology program not only provided exceptional training but also instilled lifelong values that have shaped my path as a neurologist.

Dr Rajeshwar Sahonta (2015-2018)

I completed my DM Neurology training at Christian Medical College (CMC), Ludhiana, from 2015 to 2018. The experience was truly transformative—both professionally and personally. The program’s rigorous, evidence-based, and well-structured curriculum provided a comprehensive foundation in clinical and academic neurology. During my training, I had the privilege of learning under the guidance of esteemed faculty members, including Dr. Jeyaraj D. Pandian and Dr. Mahesh Kate. Their mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping my clinical acumen and research skills. Under their supervision, I undertook a randomized controlled trial as my thesis project, which was selected for oral presentation at the European Stroke Organisation Conference (ESOC) in 2018. Inspired by Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian’s expertise and vision, I pursued neurointervention as my subspecialty. Since then, I have completed the World Stroke Organization’s flagship Future Stroke Leaders Program (Cohort 2022–2024) and am currently enrolled in the European Course in Minimally Invasive Neurological Therapy (ECMINT). My time at CMC Ludhiana laid the foundation for a career committed to advancing stroke care and neurointervention, and I remain deeply grateful for the mentorship and opportunities I received.

Dr. Ivy Anne Sebastian (2016-2019)

My residency training in Neurology at CMC Ludhiana from 2016 to 2019 was a pivotal period in my professional and personal growth. During this time, I developed a strong foundation in academic rigor, best clinical practices, and diagnostic acumen. Training under faculty renowned for their exceptional knowledge and expertise instilled in me the importance of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and clinical care- principles that continue to guide my practice even today. One of the most transformative aspects of my training was the exposure to high-quality clinical research. Under the encouragement and mentorship of Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian and Dr. Mahesh Kate, I started with case reports which sparked my passion for clinical research eventually leading to the design and conduct of my own trials. The department’s status as a comprehensive stroke center further inspired my focus on stroke neurology, motivating me to pursue advanced fellowships such as the World Stroke Organization’s Future Leaders Program and the prestigious Calgary Stroke Program fellowship. The program has provided invaluable exposure to international standards of neurological care and research, fostering a mindset centered on evidence-based medicine and continuous learning. This experience not only sharpened my clinical skills but also broadened my perspective on stroke care and neurological research, laying a strong foundation for my ongoing career in neurology.

Dr Raviteja Kakarla (2017-2020)

I completed my DM residency in Neurology from 2017 to 2020, a period that I consider both fortunate and formative. I had the privilege of training under Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian, whose rigorous and disciplined approach laid a strong foundation for my clinical practice. The intensity of the program helped me internalize essential neurological skills at a subconscious level—something that continues to benefit me today in my role as a consultant. From the very beginning of my training, I was exposed to acute neurology, which greatly enhanced my clinical acumen. Notably, the neurointervention program was initiated during my first year, sparking a deep interest that eventually led me to pursue a fellowship in neurointervention. The faculty and support staff fostered a collaborative and supportive environment, contributing significantly to both my professional and personal growth.

Dr Deepti Bal (2018-2021)

I completed my DM in Neurology (2018–2021) at Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, under the mentorship of Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian, Head of the Department and a world-renowned expert in stroke medicine. Training under him was a transformative experience—his dedication to patient care, exceptional multitasking, and attention to detail set a powerful standard for clinical excellence. The residency program emphasized strong clinical skills and bedside diagnosis, fostering a deep understanding of neurological disorders through patient-centered learning, with a particular focus on acute neurology. The faculty was highly approachable and committed to teaching, creating a supportive and stimulating academic environment. I had the opportunity to be actively involved in the department’s well-established Stroke Program, which provided extensive hands-on experience in vascular neurology. The intensive training I received at CMC Ludhiana continues to shape my clinical approach and practice in neurology today.

Dr. Sandeep Ghosh (2019-2022):

Although a significant part of my residency coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, I was fortunate to gain extensive clinical exposure to a wide spectrum of neurological disorders—including stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular conditions, and cognitive impairments. The presence of a fully functional neurointervention unit at CMC Ludhiana provided hands-on experience with stroke interventions, aneurysm coiling, and carotid stenting. This exposure was instrumental in equipping me to establish and practice neurointervention services at my current center. The Neuromuscular Division at CMC is a leader in this field within the region, offering cutting-edge diagnostic and management strategies. CMC’s academic and research ecosystem is among the best in India, blending classical clinical neurology teaching with discussions on recent advances and emerging research. The residency program also includes outreach training at prestigious institutions like CMC Vellore and SCTIMST (Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology), which broadens one’s perspectives and introduces new opportunities. The faculty at CMC Ludhiana are highly supportive and deeply committed to nurturing each resident’s potential. Looking back, I consider the residency program at CMC Ludhiana to be a deeply enriching experience that laid a strong foundation and gave me the direction and confidence to continue growing in the field of Neurology.

Dr Soumya (2020-2023)

As a student of the DM Neurology 2020 batch at CMC Ludhiana, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have trained at this esteemed institution. The program provided an outstanding platform to develop and refine my clinical, academic, and research skills. I consider myself fortunate to have learned under the guidance of Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian, whose leadership, dedication, and teaching have been a constant source of inspiration and a model for excellence. I am also deeply thankful to Dr. Vineeth Jaison, whose empathetic and compassionate approach to patient care left a lasting impression on me and continues to shape how I interact with patients. Dr. Rajeshwar remains a constant support and mentor for academic guidance, even beyond the years of formal training. Thanks to the rigorous and well-rounded training I received at CMC Ludhiana, I am now confident in making independent clinical decisions and providing high-quality neurological care. I am proud to be an alumnus of this institution and wholeheartedly encourage future students to make the most of the unique learning environment and opportunities it offers.

Dr Sandeep Kaur (2021-2024)

I am currently in the final year of my DM Neurology residency at Christian Medical College (CMC), Ludhiana. My training here has been a transformative journey, shaping me both personally and professionally. The regular academic sessions, seminars, and case discussions have not only kept me abreast of the latest developments in neurology but also sharpened my clinical reasoning and diagnostic skills. I have learned to approach complex cases with confidence and communicate my clinical decisions clearly. The hands-on training in electrophysiology—particularly in EEG, EMG, autonomic function testing (AFT), and sleep studies—has been rigorous and well-structured, providing me with a strong foundation in practical neurology. I have had the privilege of being mentored by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members. Dr. Jeyaraj Pandian instilled in me the values of discipline, focus, and the importance of staying aligned with global standards. Dr. Vineeth’s expertise in neuromuscular disorders and multidisciplinary care greatly enriched my understanding of this subspecialty. Dr. Rajeshwar, my thesis guide, introduced me to neurointerventions and has been a constant source of academic support. Dr. Ivy Sebastian helped me strengthen my clinical and bedside examination skills and boosted my confidence early in the program. I am especially grateful to the department for their support and understanding during a significant personal milestone in my first year. Their encouragement enabled me to navigate both personal and professional responsibilities with ease. As I near the completion of my residency, I look back with deep gratitude to CMC Ludhiana. The training and mentorship I received here have shaped me into a confident, skilled, and compassionate neurologist. From the bottom of my heart, I thank the institution and every faculty member who has been a part of this journey.