The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has launched India’s first three-year Doctorate of Medicine (DM) programme in paediatric dermatology. The initiative strengthens specialised care for children with skin disorders. It also addresses the long-standing need for structured super-speciality training in paediatric dermatology.
The programme will admit candidates through the Institute of National Importance Super-Speciality (INI-SS) entrance pathway. It offers advanced training in diagnosing and treating common and rare skin conditions. The curriculum covers disorders affecting infants, children and adolescents. It also prepares specialists to manage complex cases requiring multidisciplinary care.
The programme aims to build specialist expertise
PGIMER Director Prof. Vivek Lal said the programme reflects the institute’s commitment to specialised healthcare and medical education. He said the initiative will create experts with advanced skills in paediatric dermatology. He added that the programme supports PGIMER’s vision of improving patient outcomes through innovation and academic excellence.
The course covers a wide range of paediatric skin conditions. These include eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, skin infections and pigmentary disorders. The curriculum also addresses hair disorders and rare inherited skin diseases. Many of these conditions require early diagnosis and coordinated treatment across multiple specialities. The programme equips doctors with the expertise to manage these challenging cases effectively.
Closing a critical training gap
India previously lacked a dedicated super-speciality degree in paediatric dermatology. Children with complex skin diseases often depended on dermatologists trained mainly in adult care. PGIMER’s new programme fills this important gap. It develops specialists focused entirely on children’s dermatological needs.
Strengthening research and patient care
The initiative also reinforces PGIMER’s leadership in dermatology education and research. Earlier this year, the institute’s Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology ranked first in Asia. It also secured the eighteenth position globally in the EduRank 2026 dermatology rankings. The department has retained Asia’s top ranking for three consecutive years. This achievement highlights its excellence in research, education and patient care.
Experts believe the programme will improve access to specialised treatment across India. Graduates will strengthen hospitals, academic institutions and referral centres. They will expand national expertise in paediatric dermatology. The programme is also expected to advance research and encourage multidisciplinary collaboration. These efforts should improve clinical outcomes for children with chronic and rare skin disorders.