Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research organised SIRAT Symphony to bring together cleft warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals and support networks.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer) Smile Train Cleft Project and the Department of Plastic Surgery in collaboration with Smile Train India and SIRAT – The Cleft Warriors Assemble, organised SIRAT Symphony 2026 recently, bringing together cleft warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals and support networks under one roof.The event — the fifth edition of SIRAT Symphony in India — focused on the lived experiences of individuals affected by cleft conditions, creating a safe and inclusive environment.Speakers at the Symphony 2026 emphasised that successful cleft care was not measured solely by surgical outcomes but by the overall well-being, confidence and empowerment of children and families. The programme highlighted the importance of listening to patients, understanding their emotional journeys, and building communities that foster resilience, dignity, and belonging.Speaking on the occasion, Sharmistha Chakraborty, Director, Integrated Communications, Smile Train India, underscored the importance of integrating children’s well-being into patient care programmes. She noted that while access to safe and timely surgery remains critical, long-term success depends equally on addressing psychological needs, communication skills, family support, and opportunities that enable children to thrive with confidence.Ravi Kumar Chittoria, Professor (Senior Scale), Head of the Department of Plastic Surgery, Associate Dean (Academic), and Registrar, Jipmer, highlighted the importance of comprehensive cleft care and sustained community engagement. He commended the efforts of the multidisciplinary team involved in the Jipmer Smile Train Cleft Project and acknowledged the continued support of the institution in advancing holistic cleft care services.In his message, Vir Singh Negi, Director, Jipmer, emphasised that cleft care represented one of the finest examples of patient-centred multidisciplinary healthcare. He noted that the success of a child born with a cleft condition cannot be measured merely by a successful surgery, but by the child’s ability to communicate confidently, pursue education, participate fully in society, and lead a life of dignity and self-esteem.Achieving such outcomes requires the seamless collaboration of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, speech therapists, orthodontists, pediatricians, nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, social workers, project coordinators, peer counsellors, and family members, he said.Mr. Negi stated that Jipmer remains committed to delivering comprehensive, compassionate, and holistic care that addresses both the medical and psychosocial needs of children and families, while fostering a supportive ecosystem where every child can realise their full potential. Published - June 30, 2026 08:40 pm IST
