- Two-day conclave features seven CEO War Rooms on AI, strategic leadership, financial sustainability, hospital operations, digital marketing, talent retention and womenās leadership
JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu in collaboration with the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organisations (CAHO), inaugurated the Global CEO Conclave 2026 at Mandapam, IIM Jammu, bringing together eminent healthcare leaders, hospital administrators, medical professionals, industry experts and management practitioners to deliberate on the evolving priorities of healthcare leadership and hospital management. The two-day conclave, being held on October 16ā17, 2026, seeks to foster meaningful dialogue on the strategic, technological, financial and human dimensions of healthcare, with a focus on building future-ready, patient-centric and sustainable healthcare organisations.
The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Guest of Honor,Dr. Milind Kamble, Padma Shri awardee and Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu. Chief Guest Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Former Member, NITI Aayog graced the occasion. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. M. Srinivas, Member (Health), NITI Aayog (Online Mode), Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu; Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President Emeritus, Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organisations (CAHO),Dr. Lallu Joseph, President, CAHO and Associate General Secretary and Quality Manager at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore and Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Secretary General, CAHO and Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad
The inaugural session commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and Saraswati Vandana, followed by the felicitation of distinguished guests. The proceedings reflected the shared commitment of IIM Jammu and CAHO to strengthening the interface between management education and healthcare practice, while creating a platform for knowledge exchange, leadership development and collaborative solutions to the emerging challenges of the healthcare sector.
Chief Guest Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Former Member, NITI Aayog, underscored that achieving Viksit Bharat @2047 requires a healthcare system that combines robust infrastructure, professional management, research-driven innovation and equitable access to affordable, high-quality care for every citizen. Congratulating IIM Jammu on completing its 10th anniversary, he commended the Instituteās expanding infrastructure and growing contribution to management education. Appreciating the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organisations (CAHO) for advancing quality and collaboration in healthcare, he noted that the Global CEO Conclave 2026 provides an important platform to address emerging challenges in healthcare delivery. He emphasized the need to expand healthcare infrastructure beyond metropolitan centres, particularly in underserved regions, through sustained public and private investment.
Highlighting the importance of integrating medical expertise with managerial capabilities, operational efficiency and financial discipline, he called for stronger partnerships among IIMs, medical institutions and healthcare providers to develop future-ready hospital leaders. He also stressed investment in healthcare workforce development, clinical research, artificial intelligence and personalised medicine, encouraging collaboration among IIM Jammu, AIIMS and CAHO. Underscoring public trust as fundamental to sustainable healthcare, he advocated transparent pricing, ethical practices and a balance between institutional viability and patient affordability. He concluded that coordinated efforts by the government, academia and the healthcare industry are essential to building an inclusive and resilient healthcare ecosystem.
Guest of Honor,Dr. Milind Pralhad Kamble, Padma Shri awardee and Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, emphasised that the success of healthcare ultimately rests on the people who deliver care, highlighting the critical role of leadership, human capital development, and managerial excellence in building a resilient and sustainable healthcare ecosystem. Appreciating the collaboration between IIM Jammu and the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organisations (CAHO) in organising the Global CEO Conclave 2026, he observed that the future of healthcare lies in integrating clinical expertise with professional management, technological innovation and patient-centric leadership. He underscored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, advanced diagnostics and medical technology in improving the accessibility, quality and efficiency of healthcare, while stressing the need to balance innovation with affordability, ethical practices, patient trust and regulatory compliance. Highlighting the complementary roles of the public and private healthcare sectors, he called for stronger institutional partnerships to translate ideas into practical solutions and measurable social impact.
He also emphasised the need to create enabling pathways for women to advance into senior leadership positions and strengthen the human capital essential for healthcare delivery. Underscoring the role of academic institutions in advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, he called for greater emphasis on executive education, applied research and case-based learning to prepare future healthcare leaders. He noted that sustained collaboration among academia, healthcare institutions and industry would be instrumental in advancing clinical excellence, organisational stability and long-term healthcare sustainability, ensuring that innovation ultimately translates into better patient outcomes and more accessible care for all.
Dr. M. Srinivas, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, underscored that effective healthcare leadership begins with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to patient welfare, emphasising that clinical excellence must go hand in hand with patient experience and organisational efficiency. He urged healthcare leaders to embrace responsibility, strengthen institutional accountability and address systemic challenges at their root. Highlighting AIIMS initiatives such as AI-enabled patient navigation through AIIMS DISHA and digital administrative management through SAHAS (System for AIIMS Human Resources & Accounting Services), he demonstrated how technology can enhance accessibility, transparency and operational efficiency. He stressed that artificial intelligence and digital transformation must deliver clinically reliable, affordable and patient-centric solutions, supported by real-time data and timely corrective action. Calling for stronger collaboration among medical institutions, IITs, engineers, researchers and management experts, he emphasised the importance of translating innovation into practical healthcare solutions. He noted that
ethical governance, interdisciplinary partnerships and responsible technology adoption are vital to building resilient healthcare institutions and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, with better patient care remaining the ultimate measure of success.
Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, emphasized that the true measure of healthcare excellence lies in ensuring that every citizen, irrespective of economic background or geographical location, has access to quality medical care. Welcoming the distinguished healthcare leaders at the Global CEO Conclave 2026, he highlighted the need to integrate clinical expertise, professional management and technological innovation to build an accessible, efficient and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem. Referring to the contributions of AIIMS New Delhi and AIIMS Jammu, he underscored the importance of strengthening healthcare infrastructure and removing barriers of distance and affordability.
He highlighted the role of government initiatives, including Ayushman Bharat and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), in advancing equitable access to healthcare. Stressing that healthcare delivery depends on the collective efforts of doctors, nurses, technicians and support staff, he called for greater collaboration among medical professionals, management experts and technology leaders, emphasising that those who care for others must also be cared for. He noted that bridging management education with clinical practice and innovation is essential to strengthening healthcare institutions and improving patient outcomes. Reaffirming the importance of contributing to the vision of the Honāble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, he emphasized the need for collective efforts to advance accessible, affordable and quality healthcare for all as India progresses towards Viksit Bharat @2047.
Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President Emeritus, Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organisations (CAHO), emphasised that the future of healthcare depends on transparent governance, effective leadership and an unwavering focus on patient experience. Highlighting the unprecedented opportunities for transformation in healthcare, he stressed that hospital administration must go beyond operational efficiency to embrace continuous quality improvement and public accountability. He called for hospital boards and management teams to communicate the economics of healthcare more transparently, helping the public understand the factors driving rising treatment and operational costs. Underscoring the importance of patient feedback, he noted that understanding how patients feel when they leave a healthcare facility is vital to identifying gaps and improving service delivery. He further highlighted that quality healthcare is a collective endeavour requiring seamless coordination between clinical and administrative teams, supported by strong leadership at every level. Calling for sustained efforts to nurture healthcare leaders and empower professionals, he stressed that collaboration among all stakeholders is essential to building a responsive, sustainable and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem rooted in public trust.
Dr. Lallu Joseph, President, CAHO and Associate General Secretary and Quality Manager at Christian Medical College (CMC), Velloreunderscored that the future of healthcare will be shaped by leaders who collaborate, embrace innovation and turn shared knowledge into meaningful action. Addressing the Global CEO Conclave 2026, she highlighted the importance of bringing healthcare leaders together to exchange practical insights, build professional networks and identify emerging leaders who can drive industry transformation. She emphasised that open dialogue, active listening and shared experiences are essential to addressing evolving healthcare challenges and fostering collective learning. Highlighting the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital marketing, she stressed the need to harness emerging technologies to transform healthcare communication, strengthen patient engagement and improve service delivery. Appreciating the collaboration with IIM Jammu, she expressed hope that the conclave would go beyond discussion to foster enduring partnerships, actionable ideas and new opportunities for innovation, ultimately strengthening healthcare leadership and management.
Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta, Honorary Distinguished Professor, IIM Jammu, in his address, underscored that the future of healthcare lies in transforming clinical excellence, technological innovation and management expertise into better patient outcomes and stronger institutions. Highlighting Indiaās growing opportunities in healthcare infrastructure, accessibility, patient safety and global competitiveness, he emphasised that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, must be deployed meaningfully to enhance the quality, efficiency and reach of healthcare services. He stressed that the convergence of AIIMSās clinical expertise and IIM Jammuās management capabilities can play a pivotal role in advancing hospital administration, financial management and healthcare leadership. Calling for stronger institutional partnerships that translate intellectual discourse into tangible action, he emphasised the need to nurture capable, compassionate and committed leaders who can shape the future of the healthcare sector. He expressed hope that the Global CEO Conclave 2026 would mark the beginning of a lasting collaboration between AIIMS and IIM Jammu, creating a meaningful impact through innovation, institutional excellence and a shared commitment to patient welfare. He noted that the true legacy of healthcare leadership lies in the lives transformed, the leaders nurtured and the institutions strengthened for generations to come.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Secretary General, CAHO and Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, followed by the National Song and National Anthem.
Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Secretary General, CAHO and Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, provided an overview of the Global CEO Conclave 2026 and briefed the participating CEOs on the objectives and format of the seven CEO War Rooms. Designed to encourage focused, interactive, and experience-driven discussions, the War Rooms offer a platform for healthcare leaders to examine complex managerial challenges, exchange practical insights, and explore solutions that can be applied across healthcare institutions.
Dr. Lallu Joseph, President, CAHO and Associate General Secretary and Quality Manager at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, introduced the vision and objectives of the Global CEO Conclave 2026. She highlighted the importance of collaborative learning among healthcare leaders and the need to translate strategic discussions into actionable practices that improve quality, patient safety, organisational performance and healthcare outcomes.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu in the afternoon, welcomed the participants and introduced IIM Jammu, highlighting the Instituteās commitment to developing responsible leaders and advancing management education, research and industry engagement. His address set the context for the conclave, emphasising the value of bringing together academic perspectives and real-world healthcare leadership experience.
A key highlight of the inaugural session was the signing and exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IIM Jammu and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA, by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, and Prof. (Dr.) Rubin Pillay, Professor of Medicine and Business, Assistant Dean for Global Health Innovation, School of Medicine, and Chief Innovation Officer, UAB Health System. The partnership aims to advance international academic collaboration through faculty and student exchanges, joint research in healthcare AI, machine learning, big data analytics and supply chain management, healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship, and the development of immersive learning models using Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR). It will also foster joint academic programmes, conferences and knowledge exchange, creating new avenues for interdisciplinary research, technology transfer and innovation in healthcare management.
The inaugural session also witnessed the release of two significant publications contributing to knowledge in healthcare management and medical practice: MCQs in Hospital Administration and Healthcare Management, authored by Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Sunil Kant and Dr. Prashant Rampal; and Doās & Donāts in Radiology, authored by Dr. Gita, Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Sunil Kant. The publications seek to support knowledge development and professional learning in hospital administration, healthcare management and radiology.
A distinctive feature of the Global CEO Conclave 2026 is its seven CEO War Rooms, designed to move beyond conventional conference discussions and encourage focused deliberations around real-world leadership challenges. Bringing together CEOs, hospital administrators, healthcare professionals and subject-matter experts, the sessions examine the interconnected priorities of technology adoption, leadership effectiveness, financial sustainability, operational excellence, patient experience, workforce development and inclusion.
The first War Room explores whether artificial intelligence represents a fundamental transformation of healthcare or an ongoing evolution in the way healthcare organisations operate. The discussion is moderated by Mr. Sijo Joseph, Vice President, Renai Medicity, Kochi, and Dr. Santosh Kumar Pandey, Executive Director, NHS Hospital, Jalandhar, with Mr. Giri Agarwal, Co-Founder, Incisiv, as the keynote speaker. The session examines how healthcare institutions can prepare for AI-led change, assess emerging applications and integrate technology responsibly into clinical and administrative processes. It also highlights the importance of organisational readiness, leadership alignment and the ability to translate technological advancements into meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery.
A healthcare CEOās early decisions can shape organisational direction, establish leadership credibility and influence long-term performance. This War Room focuses on the priorities that leaders must address when assuming a new role, including understanding organisational culture, aligning teams, identifying performance gaps and translating strategic objectives into measurable outcomes. The session is moderated by Mr. Raj Gore, Operating Partner, Advent, and Dr. Aayush Gupta, Director, Quality and Medical Services, Sarvodaya Healthcare, with Mr. Gautam Khanna, CEO, P. D. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, delivering the keynote address. The deliberations aim to identify practical approaches to building trust, setting clear priorities and creating a strong foundation for sustained organisational performance.
Financial sustainability remains central to the long-term resilience of healthcare institutions, particularly in an environment of rising costs, increasing patient expectations and the need for continuous investments in infrastructure and technology. This War Room examines the key financial drivers that influence profitability, resource utilisation and organisational sustainability. The session is moderated by Dr. Narendranath V., Strategic Advisor, Medblaze and Consultant, Azim Premji Foundation, and Dr. Sheenu Jhawar, Promoter and Director, Apex Hospitals Chain in North India, and Trustee, TiE Global Board. Mr. Sivaramakrishnan R., Co-Founder and CEO, Sincere Syndication, serves as the keynote speaker. The discussion focuses on financial discipline, cost management, revenue performance and the importance of informed decision-making in balancing financial health with quality patient care.
Creating a seamless hospital experience requires more than the adoption of new technology; it demands the effective integration of people, processes and systems around the needs of patients. This War Room explores ways to reduce operational bottlenecks, improve coordination across departments and create more responsive healthcare environments. The session is moderated by Dr. Suvin Shetty, Head, Academics and Diagnostics, Dr. L. H. Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai, and Mr. Saurabh Gupta, Regional Director, KIMS, Greater Mumbai, with Ms. Archna Gupta, Group Head, Operations and Service Excellence, Preventive Health, Apollo Hospitals, as the keynote speaker. The deliberations examine how operational excellence and technology-enabled workflows can strengthen patient experience, service delivery and institutional efficiency.
As healthcare becomes increasingly digital, institutions must develop more effective ways to connect with patients, build trust and improve the efficiency of their outreach. This War Room explores the practical application of artificial intelligence in digital marketing, with particular attention to patient acquisition, engagement, conversion and the economics of patient outreach. The session is moderated by Ms. Gayathri Sandeep, CEO,
Seethapathy Clinic & Hospitals, Chennai, and Dr. Amit Tomer, CEO, Nepal Medicity, Nepal, with Mr. Anwesh Roy, Head of Applied AI and Research, Engati Technologies, as the keynote speaker. The discussion focuses on the responsible use of data and AI-driven tools to improve marketing effectiveness, understand patient behaviour and build more efficient, measurable and patient-focused engagement strategies.
The ability to attract, develop and retain skilled professionals is fundamental to the performance and sustainability of healthcare organisations. This War Room addresses the challenges of workforce planning, employee engagement, talent retention and organisational culture in a sector where people remain central to service quality and patient outcomes. The session is moderated by Dr. Ekta Modi, COO, Parul Sevashram Hospital, affiliated with Parul Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Vadodara, with Dr. Neil Sequeira, Chief Operating Officer, Thane Cancer Hospital, as the keynote speaker. The deliberations explore how healthcare leaders can strengthen workplace culture, understand employee expectations and develop strategies that support professional growth, workforce stability and continuity of care.
Womenās leadership is an important dimension of building inclusive, resilient and forward-looking healthcare institutions. This War Room examines leadership pathways, representation, professional advancement and the organisational conditions that enable women to contribute meaningfully to strategic decision-making. The session is moderated by Dr. Neha Lal, Associate Vice President, Adani Healthcare, and Mrs. Sandhya Cherian, Vice President, Frontier Lifeline Hospital, Chennai, with Capt. Ajitha Nair, CEO, KIMSHEALTH Kottayam and President, ANEI, as the keynote speaker. The discussion highlights leadership experiences, the importance of inclusive institutional cultures and the need to create opportunities that enable women leaders to shape the future of healthcare.
Together, the seven War Rooms offer a comprehensive perspective on the challenges facing healthcare leadership today, from harnessing AI and strengthening financial sustainability to creating patient-centric hospitals, improving workforce engagement and advancing inclusive leadership. By bringing practitioners and experts into focused, experience-led conversations, the conclave seeks to encourage practical insights that can inform decision-making across healthcare institutions.
The Global CEO Conclave 2026 reflects the shared commitment of IIM Jammu and CAHO to fostering leadership that combines managerial competence, technological preparedness, operational excellence and a sustained focus on patient welfare. The conclave provides an important platform for healthcare leaders to exchange perspectives, challenge established approaches and explore strategies that can help build more accessible, efficient, resilient and future-ready healthcare organisations.The inaugural day brought together academic leadership, healthcare expertise and industry experience, setting the stage for further deliberations and collaborative learning during the conclave.

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