On 24th August 2025, members of Samman Association proudly participated in the National Epilepsy Conference (ECON 2025) held in Chennai. At the prestigious KS Mani Forum, our epilepsy advocacy warriors took center stage to share their experiences, challenges, and insights — bringing the patient voice into the heart of India’s most important epilepsy meeting.

Samman Speakers at the KS Mani Forum

Our members delivered powerful presentations on issues that deeply affect the epilepsy community:

• Pooja Nandi – “Why the Patient Voice Matters in IGAP and Epilepsy Care”
• Akanksha Patankar – “Insurance Issues in Epilepsy Care”
• Deepesh Palkar – “Role of Caregivers and Family Support”
• Ankush – “Mental Health and Emotional Well-being in Epilepsy”
• Aneeta Dominic – “Epilepsy and Brain Wellness”

Each presentation highlighted the systemic challenges that need urgent attention — from insurance coverage to mental health support, caregiver involvement, and epilepsy visibility within IGAP strategies.

Their voices received heartfelt appreciation from senior leaders of the Indian Epilepsy Association (IEA), with a heartfelt note from Dr. Satish Chandra, Dr. Gagandeep Singh, Dr. Bindu Menon.

“We really appreciate all the wonderful presentations during the KS Mani Forum at ECON 2025, Chennai. These are a testimony to the individual grit, determination, resilience and strength of all and the excellent platform provided by SAMMAN. Three cheers to all. Please continue this excellent work being done by all. Really grateful. 🙏”

— Prof. P Satish Chandra, President, Indian Epilepsy Association
Advisor & Senior Consultant in Neurology, Apollo Institute of Neurosciences, Bangalore
— Dr. Gagandeep Singh, President Elect, Indian Epilepsy Association,
Professor & Head, Department of Neurology, Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana
— Dr. Bindu Menon, Secretary General, Indian Epilepsy Association,
Prof and HOD Neurology, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore

Distinguished Presentations at ECON 2025

Alongside the KS Mani Forum, two of our guiding light doctors made highly acclaimed contributions:

• Dr. Jayanti Mani delivered the prestigious B.M. Sharma Oration, introduced by Dr. Urvashi Shah. Dr. Mani also presented on “Voices That Matter – Mobilizing Media, Policymakers & Public Opinion”, emphasizing the critical role of digital advocacy in shaping India’s epilepsy agenda.
• Dr. Urvashi Shah presented on two key themes:
  • “Neurocognitive Aspects of Epilepsy Surgery”
  • “Integrating Mental Health into IGAP Strategies”

These talks highlighted the importance of integrating mental health, patient experience, and scientific research into the broader landscape of epilepsy care and global action plans.

For Samman, ECON 2025 was a celebration of patient voices, medical leadership, and collaborative advocacy. We are proud of our members for their courage and deeply grateful for the recognition by India’s foremost epilepsy experts.