Induction Program for the Newly Admitted First-Professional Year, Bachelor of Sowa-Rigpa Medicine and Surgery, Academic Session 2025–2026

From 1st October to 20th October 2025, a 15-day Induction Program was conducted in accordance with the Transitional Curriculum prescribed by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. The program was organized for the newly enrolled First-Professional BSRMS students for the Academic Session 2025–2026, comprising a total of nine students—four girls and five boys.

The primary aim of the program was to provide essential knowledge, exposure, and guidance that would help the students transition smoothly from their previous educational background to formal Sowa-Rigpa studies. It was also designed to prepare them to commence their First-Professional BSRMS coursework with enthusiasm, confidence, and a comprehensive understanding of the system. The program was conducted over 15 working days (totalling 90 hours) at the College Conference Hall.

The Induction Program commenced with an Inaugural Session. The principal of the college presented a brief overview of the origin and history of Men-Tsee-Khang Sowa-Rigpa Medical College. The Chief Guest, Men-Tsee-Khang Cultural Director, highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards in Sowa-Rigpa practice. The Guest of Honour, Executive Director of the institute, emphasized the significance of ethics in the practice of Sowa-Rigpa medicine. This was followed by self-introductions by the new students and an interactive session with the First-Professional teaching faculty.

A pre-test was administered prior to the beginning of the formal induction sessions. The students were also taken on a guided tour of the college campus, hospital, various departments, and the institute museum, where they were introduced to the respective department heads. A post-test was conducted at the end of the course to assess whether the desired learning outcomes had been achieved.

A wide range of orientation lectures and sessions were conducted, covering topics such as:

            •          Rules and Regulations of the Campus

            •          Personal Health and Hygiene

            •          MSE Sowa-Rigpa Regulations, 2022

            •          A Comprehensive Explanation of Meditation and Mindfulness

            •          Secular Ethics

            •          Introduction to Tibetan Language

            •          Introduction to Men-Tsee-Khang and Sowa-Rigpa College Websites

            •          Orientation on Ministry of AYUSH, NCISM, and State Directorate

            •          Overview of Academic Departments of Men-Tsee-Khang and Their Hierarchy

            •          Introduction to the BSRMS Curriculum and Subjects

            •          Integration of Modern and Traditional Sowa-Rigpa Medical Systems

            •          National Health Status, Goals, and Policies

            •          Overview of Various Medical Systems

            •          National and International Reach of Sowa-Rigpa Opportunities

            •          Introduction to Tibetan Astro-Science

            •          Gender Sensitization

            •          AYUSH Medical Systems and Their Role in Primary Health Care and Disease Prevention

Students were also oriented on the procedures related to library use, internet access, availing leave, and healthcare facilities. Motivational lectures focusing on developing positive attitudes toward patient care and Sowa-Rigpa practice were delivered. Introductory sessions on Bhoti language were conducted with emphasis on spoken proficiency. From the fifth to the fifteenth day, daily half-hour sessions on meditation and mindfulness were carried out. Special classes on computer skills and app installation were conducted by the IT team of the institute. Basic Life Support (BLS) training, including theoretical instruction, demonstration, and practical exercises, was provided by allopathic doctors from Delek Hospital, Dharamsala.

To promote overall personality development, various sessions were organized on:

            •          Health Awareness, Fitness, and Hygiene

            •          Soft Skills Development

            •          Analytical Thinking Skills

            •          Communication Skills

            •          Team Building Activities

            •          Self-Learning and Collaborative Learning Strategies

            •          Public Speaking Skills

            •          Stress Management

These sessions were conducted by professional trainers through creative, interactive methods.

Recreational activities included “Introduction to Yoga” with practical sessions, and a Talent Show during which students showcased skills such as singing, dancing (traditional and contemporary), playing traditional musical instruments, and poetry recitation.

Special emphasis was placed on “Goal Setting.” Students were instructed on how to set and achieve personal and academic goals. They then documented their goals, which were preserved as records in the college office.

The Induction Program concluded with a Closing Ceremony. Students were formally informed about the commencement of their classes from 21st October 2025. They were reminded to submit their feedback on the 15-day Induction Program and were encouraged to offer suggestions for future improvements. Study materials were then distributed to all participants.