Mysuru: Twenty doctors graduated from the rigorous Fellowship in Aero Medical Sciences (FAM) programme conducted by ICATT, marking a significant milestone in advanced emergency medical care.Congratulating the graduating doctors at the graduation ceremony at JSS Hospital auditorium, Shivarathri Desikendra Swami of Suttur Mutt described the achievement as more than academic success. He said the programme reflects a profound commitment to humanity and service. “Graduation is not the end of training but the beginning of a higher calling,” the seer noted, adding that the doctors are stepping into a rare and demanding field—Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). “The world may call you Flying Doctors, but you are healers who bring hope,” the seer said. Dr Shalini Nalwad, ICATT founder-director, highlighted that ICATT, established in 2017, is among Asia’s largest air ambulance providers, operating from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Mysuru. The organisation completed 260 ECMO transfers and over 2,600 air transfers, including 550 Covid-related missions in 2020. She also noted ICATT’s free air ambulance services in Madhya Pradesh and a critical rescue mission involving injured CRPF personnel in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Announcing future expansion, she revealed plans to introduce 788 e-planes across India, which is a 1-billion-dollar project. The curriculum is accredited by JSS University and designed in collaboration with KSS Air Ambulance Charity. JSS executive secretary CG Betsurmath, pro-chancellor B Suresh, vice-chancellor H Basavangowdappa, FAM academic head Dr Neal Durge, ICATT founder director Dr Rahul Singh Sardar and JSS Medical College principal Dr D Narayanappa were present.
