Meenakshi College of Occupational Therapy, MAHER, in collaboration with the Association of Neonatal Therapists (ANT), Mumbai, organised NEOANT 2026, a three-day National Conference on Neonatal Therapy, from 8 to 10 October 2026. Centred on the theme “Neonatal Therapy Without Borders,” the conference brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, academicians and therapists to exchange knowledge, share research findings and explore contemporary approaches to neonatal care and developmental support. The conference was organised under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Deepa Sundareswaran (OT), Principal, Meenakshi College of Occupational Therapy, with the support of the management.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Anurag Joshi, Social Policy Specialist – Child Survival, UNICEF Office for Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and Guest of Honour Dr. Rema Chandramohan, Deputy CEO, Centre for Excellence for Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Chennai. Dr. Srividhya, Dean Academics, delivered the inaugural address, emphasising timely intervention, interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practice in improving outcomes for neonates and their families. Dr. Pacha Muthu Balakrishnan, Professor and Chief Scientist, highlighted the importance of innovation and collaborative approaches in neonatal care. A major highlight was the conferment of the Lifetime Achievement Award on Dr. Jyothika Bijlani, Dean of the Academic Council of Occupational Therapy (ACOT), All India Occupational Therapists’ Association (AIOTA), in recognition of her contributions to the occupational therapy profession.
The scientific programme featured expert sessions on neonatal assessment, developmental and sensory care, cue-based feeding, family-centred practice and occupational therapy services in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). An interdisciplinary panel discussion titled “Beyond Survival: Thriving Together” explored collaborative approaches to neonatal development and well-being. A group therapy workshop conducted by Prof. Dr. Deepa Sundareswaran offered practical insights into neonatal and paediatric occupational therapy.
Research dissemination was encouraged through scientific paper and poster presentations, with approximately 15 paper presentations and 30 poster presentations. Other highlights included the Neonatal Therapy Parliament, a quiz competition and sessions addressing sustainable occupational therapy services in NICUs.
Conducted in a hybrid format, NEOANT 2026 enabled both in-person and virtual participation, extending opportunities for professional interaction and knowledge sharing. The valedictory ceremony marked the successful conclusion of the conference, acknowledging the contributions of speakers, chairpersons, delegates, faculty members, students and organising committees.
NEOANT 2026 reinforced the importance of early identification, evidence-informed interventions, family-centred care and interdisciplinary collaboration in strengthening neonatal services and improving developmental outcomes for infants and their families.
The conference was supported by its sponsors, Akkara Foundation, Pebbles Therapy Centre, Six Senses Learning and Rehabilitation Centre, and Equitas Small Finance Bank. Meenakshi College of Occupational Therapy, MAHER, extends its sincere gratitude to the university leadership, ANT, invited speakers, workshop facilitators, chairpersons, delegates, sponsors, faculty members, students and organising committees for their valuable contributions to the success of NEOANT 2026.
