Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I am privileged and honoured to invite delegates from all over the world to India to attend the 42nd World Congress of the International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM) which will be held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, India from 19th to 24th November, 2017. The Congress will be hosted by the Armed Forces Medical Services, Ministry of Defence, India, in accordance with the statutes of the Secretariat General of the ICMM.

The central theme of the Congress is 'Military Medicine in Transition: Looking Ahead'. The broad subjects under the central theme are Terrain specific military medical support: challenges and solutions; Health protection and promotion in the military environment: experiences and best practices; Combat medical support: technological advances and implications; and Humanitarian aid and disaster relief: implications of a changing global scenario.

The congress will have simultaneous scientific sessions, poster presentations, round tables, panel discussions and workshops encompassing the broad themes. Eminent experts in the field of military medicine will deliver the keynote address and plenary talks.

New Delhi is a blend of multiple cultures and is a symbol of India's rich past and thriving present where the ancient and the modern converge seamlessly. It is a place that touches not only your mind but also your heart. The city offers the best of an ancient civilization and a young evolving nation to its visitors, bringing people closer and inspiring their thoughts.

This meeting will be a perfect opportunity for all nations to learn about the best practices of modern military medicine, exchange information, and become friends. It is time to celebrate this event in this global city.

I welcome you to the 42nd World Congress of ICMM at New Delhi in the true spirit of 'Atithi Devo Bhavo' meaning 'Guests are equivalent to Gods'.

Lieutenant General MK Unni, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, PHS
Cardio-Thoracic Surgeon
Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, India
Chairman of the Steering Committee
42nd World Congress of ICMM