MM Dental College

Maratha Mandal’s Nathjirao G. Halgekar

Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Belagavi

Admissions Open

Events

Sports Event – VAYU 2026

76 th IDA Dental Conference 2026

76 th IDA Dental Conference was held at FATHER MULLER CONVENTION CENTER MANGALORE from 6 th to 8 th of February 2026. The conference included guest lectures on diverse topics by renowned Speakers and paper and poster presentations. Dr Prachi Katti, Reader, Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology was chairperson for scientific session .Also presented paper on ‘Evaluation and comparison of salivary composition in controlled and uncontrolled type2 diabetes mellitus patients-A case control study.

Two Of All The Participant Received The Best Paper Presentation Award.

1] Ms. Pooja Walmiki Presented A Paper On Topic : “ Orchid And Beyond: Transforming Oral Submucous Fibrosis Diagnosis With High Resolution Ai Analytics.”
2] Dr. Jennifer Bardeskar Presented A Paper On Topic: “Man Vs Machine : A 1,00,000 Case Reveive Of Robotic Assisted Osteotomies In Dentistry.”

Names Of All The Participants Are

1 st Year

  • Zohara Asif Ali Bankapure

2 nd Year

  • Deeman Deepak
  • Isra Khan
  • Aravind U
  • Shlok Patil
  • Poorvi Bijjal
  • Esha Raman
  • Disha M.S
  • Vishwanath Patil
  • Ananya. J

3 rd Year

  • Digvijay Holennavar
  • Deepa Hiremath
  • Pooja Walmiki
  • Krupa Kotabagi
  • Apeksha Raibagi
  • Srisahiti B
  • Suraksha Hiremath
  • Md.Umar Mulla
  • Prithvi Nayak
  • Pavan Shaldar
  • Nikhil Badiger
  • Naziya N Shaik

Intern

  • Dr. Jennifer Bardeskar
  • Dr. Jennifer Bardeskar

Dr Sachin Shivanaikar, Professor Department of Periodontology was invited as a Panelist for the Medicolegal Ethics Panel Discussion at the prestigious MeDe Vision Karnataka State Conference held at BGS Medical College, Bengaluru on 28th February 2026.

The session focused on crucial aspects of medical and dental negligence, ethical responsibilities, legal accountability, consent, and professional conduct in today’s evolving healthcare environment.

CONGRATULATIONS DR PREETHI KUSUGAL

On behalf of our Institute we would like to congratulate Dr Preethi Kusugal, Vice Principal, Professor & Head, Department of Prosthodontics & Crown & Bridge, on being elected as Executive Committee member(EC) for Indian Prosthodontic Society, Karnataka State Branch on 30 th May in the EC meeting held at Bapuji Dental College and Hospital, Davangere.

Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology

Report of National Oral Pathologist Day

The Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology of the Institute celebrated National Oral Pathologist day to mark birth anniversary of Dr. H.M Dholakia on 25 th February 2026. Dr. H.M Dholakia was the First recognised post graduate teacher of Oral Pathology in India. He is known as ‘Bhishmapitamaha’of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, and a well-known academician, mentored many Oral Pathologists of India. On this occasion Department organized cancer screening camp on 24 th February 2026 in association with Public Health Department at Londa. Dr Kuntala Mondal, Lecturer of Oral Pathology Department conducted cancer screen at Dental camp.On 25 th February a guest lecture was organised for the Undergarduate students and faculty of the Institute. Guest speaker for the event was Dr Mandana Donoghue, who is an eminent Oral Pathologist and a Founder Director of Oral Pathology 360 and Oromed 360 academy.

The programme commenced by lighting the lamp by Principal Dr. Ramakant Nayak and other dignitaries. Dr Vijayalakshi Kotrashetti welcomed gathering, introduced Guest speaker Dr. Manadana Donoghue, followed by Guest lecture titled “The Alchemy of Success: Clarity, Grit and Magic”. This was followed by felicitation of subject toppers in Dental Anatomy and Oral Histology (Ms Disha and Ms Jhanavi), and Oral Pathology and Microbiology (Ms. Daniya Batul and Miss Sifa). Program concluded with Vote of thanks delivered by Dr Deepa Katgalkar.

SHARING IS CARING

The Institution undertakes various social activities throughout the year, of which SHARING is CARING is an event that is organized every year at home for children affected with HIV/AIDS (KIAAN). The NSS unit of the institution organized SHARING IS CARING this year on 21 st February 2026. Household items like homecare products, laundry products and toiletry products were donated by the undergraduate, post graduate students and the staff of the institution. The material donated is ample and sufficient for an entire year for the home. Dr Rajshree Nagaraju Maratha Mandal Group of Institution has always encouraged such social activities which bring a huge difference for these children suffering from HIV/AIDS. It also helps the students of the institution to take up more such social activities which can lead to a small change in the society. Miss Shifa Noorahmed Gadi ,Mr Ritesh Dhere ( Gen Seceratary), Miss Aquina Gama (Co- Gen Secretary)) helped in purchasing the materials needed for the event. Dr Zarir Ruttonji, Dr Ramya Pai and Dr Pallavi G and Dr Shewta Gaikwad coordinated the event.

DIGNITY -CUP 2026

The Student Sports Committee organized the Inter-Batch Tournament, “The Dignity Cup,” an annual event held for the past four years. Volleyball and football matches were conducted for boys, and throw ball matches for girls, with five teams competing in each sport.

The third-year batch won volleyball and finished as runners- up in football, the PGs won football, and the fourth year emerged champions in throw ball. Based on overall performance, the third-year batch lifted the Dignity Cup.

GUEST LECTURE BY ALUMNI- DR SIDHU NAIR

The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, in
association with the Student Placement Cell, organized Guest lecture 10 th January 2026. The programme was aimed at undergraduate students, interns, and postgraduate students, with the objective of disseminating in-depth information regarding avenues for higher education after BDS and MDS in the United States of America. The session featured Dr. Sindhu Nair, a distinguished postgraduate alumna of MMNGHIDS, currently working as Asst. Professor at Miami University, Miami, USA as the esteemed guest speaker. The programme commenced with a formal welcome address followed by introduction of the guest speaker by Dr. Zarir R. During the session, Dr. Sindhu Nair provided valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of pursuing higher education in the USA, encompassing academic requirements, application strategies, licensing
examinations, institutional selection, and long-term career prospects. The programme was highly informative and interactive, enabling participants to gain clarity on global academic opportunities and make well-informed career decisions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and concluding remarks delivered by Dr. Ramakant Nayak, Principal, MMNGHIDS.

Dr Sindhu NJair Delivering Guest lecture

Principal Dr Ramakant Nayak welcoming Dr Sindhu Nair

Lighting the lamp by Principal Dr Ramakant Nayak

Alumini Meet report

Inauguration ceremony of Ambulance sponsored by Bank of India as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Maratha Mandal’s NGH Institute of Dental Sciences & ResearchCentre Belagavi

The Bank of India (BOI) proudly sponsored the fully equipped ambulance for the Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G. Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre Belagavi. The ceremony celebrated the bank’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community healthcare initiatives.

The newly inaugurated ambulance will enhance emergency medical services for the institute, providing timely patient transport and supporting the dental healthcare ecosystem in the region. Bank of India’s sponsorship underscores its focus on community welfare and partnership with educational institutions to improve healthcare infrastructure.

The event was graced by the following distinguished guests & dignitaries.

Shri Nagaraju Yadav, MLC, Government of Karnataka

  • Dr. Rajshree Nagaraju – President, Maratha Mandal, Belagavi
  • Dr. Ramakant Nayak – Principal, Maratha Mandal’s NGH Institute of Dental Sciences, Belagavi.
  • Shri Tarini Charan Sahu – Zonal Manager, HubballiDharwad Zone, Bank of India
  • Shri Abhinav Pandey – Deputy Zonal Manager, HubballiDharwad Zone, Bank of India
  • Smt. Sherly D Papu – Senior Branch Manager, Maratha Mandal Branch, Bank of India

The bank expressed gratitude to the institute’s leadership and all attendees for their collaboration in this impactful project. The ambulance will serve patients and students of the dental sciences Institute, reinforcing Bank of India’s dedication to social responsibility and healthcare accessibility.

PROSTHODONTIST DAY CELEBRATION

The Department of Prosthodontics, Crown and Bridge, Maratha Mandal’s N.G.H. Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre (NGHIDS & RC), Belagavi, conducted a dental outreach camp at Primary Health Centre, Hirebagewadi , Belagavi on 21st January 2026for ASHA workers, as a social initiative to celebrate Prosthodontist Day 2026. The camp was organized under the leadership of Dr Preethi Kusugal, Professor and Head, Department of Prosthodontics, and Dr Zarir Ruttonji, Reader, Department of Prosthodontics along with active participation from postgraduate students of the department. The primary objective of the camp was to assess the oral health status of ASHA workers and to create awareness regarding the importance of oral hygiene and Prosthodontic care. Oral hygiene assessment was carried out, and common dental and Prosthodontic problems were identified. The participants were educated on proper oral hygiene practices and the need for timely dental treatment. The ASHA workers were also appraised of the various schemes and discount policies at our institution by Dr Anand Hiremath, Professor, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Belagavi. In addition, the ASHA workers were motivated to act as oral health advocates within the community by encouraging individuals with dental problems to seek appropriate treatment at MMNGHIDS & RC, Belagavi. The camp received a positive response and successfully strengthened community outreach efforts. Overall, the initiative reflected the department’s commitment to social responsibility and highlighted the role of Prosthodontist in improving community oral health.

PROSTHODONTIST DAY CELEBRATION ( DENTAL CAMP FOR MGNREGA WORKERS)

The Department of Prosthodontics, Crown and Bridge organized a dental outreach camp at Agasage Taluka on 20th January 2026 for MGNREGA workers (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) which is now renamed as (Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin (VB–G RAM-G) as a social initiative to mark Prosthodontist Day. The camp was headed by Dr Preethi Kusugal, Professor and Head; Department of Prosthodontics along with staff members Dr Zarir Ruttonji , Dr Abhijit Patil and post graduate students of the Dept of the Prosthodontics Crown and Bridge The primary objective of the program was to promote oral health awareness among the rural working population. The camp also aimed to identify Prosthodontic needs and educate beneficiaries on the importance of replacing missing teeth. Oral health screening was carried out to assess missing teeth, worn dentition, and other Prosthodontic conditions. The beneficiaries were educated about proper oral hygiene practices. Counseling was provided regarding various Prosthodontic treatment options available at the institute. The MGNREGA workers showed good participation and cooperation throughout the camp. Many beneficiaries were motivated to seek further treatment at the institution. It also strengthened the institute’s rapport with the rural community. The outreach activity reflected the department’s commitment to social responsibility. The event highlighted the vital role of Prosthodontist in improving oral function and quality of life.

BASIC IMPLANT PROFECIENCY COURSE 2026

DEPARTMENT OF PERIODONTOLOGY

A “Basic Implant Proficiency” course 2026 surgical module was conducted from 3 rd to 7 th of Feburary 2026 at Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center, Belagavi, in association with Osstem India Pvt. Limited. The Department of Periodontology, Prosthodontics and Oral Surgery were part of the module

Welcome address was given by Dr Pushpa Pudkalkatti followed by lightning the lamp by Principal Dr.Ramakant Nayak, Vice Principal and Head of Department of Prosthodontics Dr Preeti Kusugal, mentor for the course Dr Rutuj Surana, Administrative incharge and Head of Department of Periodontics Dr Pushpa P, Implant incharge Dr Ajay Nayak and Dr Sandeep Katti. Other staff members of the departments attended the inaugural event.

The inaugural event was followed by didactic lectures for 2 days given by Dr Rutuj Surana (MDS, Periodontology and Implantology) from Pune. Hands on course and surgical module were also a part of the course. The surgical module was arranged in theDepartment of Periodontology were a live surgical demonstration about placement of implant was given by the mentor which was followed by implant placement by the participants. During the course 20 participants placed total of 32 implants.

The Program ended with Valedictory function wherein the participants had a question and answer session followed by vote of Thanks delivered by Dr Sachita.

POOJA III rd bds WALMIKI 1ST PLACE

POOJA WALMIKI IIIRD BDS STUDENT WON BEST e-poster for the topic titled “ Saliva as sentinel-microRNAs, IL-6 and MMP-9 in OSCC screening" in the poster competition held online on 17 th dec 2025 by National Oral Cancer Conference -2025, from Department of Oral and maxillofacial pathology and Oral Microbiology and Oral cancer research centre, FDS, Ramayya University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore. Pooja Guided by Dr Sujata Byahatti, Professor from the department of oral medicine and radiology.

Report summary :Republic Day Celebration 2026

The Republic Day celebration was conducted on 26/01/2026 with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor. The event commenced with the welcoming  Dr. Ramakant Nayak (Principal of Maratha Manadal’s Nathaji Rao G. Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences) and other dignitaries. A tribute to the Father of our nation Mahatma Gandhi was paid by garlanding the photo, followed by the unfurling of the national flag ceremony and singing of the  National Anthem.

The program included speeches in three languages delivered by Shivani – (1st  BDS), Isha (2nd  BDS) and Deepa(3rd BDS ) explaning the significance of the day.

A notable highlight of the day was the “Batch Ceremony” for third-year students, marking an important milestone in their journey. At the end of the ceremony, both the General Secretaries of the college addressed the ceremony by motivating students to take part in all the co-curricular activities of college

The event concluded with Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors and participants for making the celebration successful which was followed by breakfast .

Key Note Lecture

Dr Sachin Shivanaikar, Professor, Department of Periodontology delivered a key note Lecture on “Avoiding Negligence in Dental practice: What Every Dentist must Know” at 76 th Indian Dental Conference held at Mangalore from 6 th to 8 th February 2026.

Anti- Ragging Orientation Program report

The Anti ragging committee of Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre Belagavi conducted an Anti-ragging Orientation program on 11/02/2026 in the college auditorium. All the students from I st BDS to IV th BDS, Interns and all the MDS students from I st MDS-3 rd MDS were present for the program. Dr Shiva Sharan Shetty, member, Dental Council of India from Mangalore addressed the gathering. Dr Shiva Sharan Shetty counselled all the students against the menace of ragging and to maintain a healthy interpersonal relation among students in the college campus and also explained about the various measures taken by the Dental council of India to safe guard and protect the students from ragging. During this program he was felicitated by the college. All the Anti ragging committee members, Principal, Vice principal, Administrative incharge and HOD of all Departments were present for the program.

DEPARTMENT OF ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G.Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre Belagavi celebrated International Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons day on 13 February 2026. The theme for this year was “Know your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon”. After inauguration, Dr. Tushar Bandiwadekar welcomed, Principal Dr.Ramakant Nayak and Vice Principal Dr.Preeti Kusugal. Dr. Ashwini Hosamani delivered a lecture on theme “Know your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon”. Reel competition was held for the undergraduate students and winners were awarded with certificates. Akeefa Makandar , Intern spoke about the work interns get to do in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr.Sangeeta Bhandari delivered vote of thanks. Rajshree Nagaraju, the President of Maratha Mandal group of institutions conveyed her best wishes for the celebrations.

National Award

Dr Sachin Shivanaikar, Professor, Department of Periodontology received a Best CDH Convenor Award for State ( KARNATAK STATE) at 76th Indian Dental Conference held at Mangalore from 6 th to 8 th February 2026. Received the award by IDA President Dr  Manoj Srivastava , Hon Secretary General Dr Ashok Dhoble, Immediate past President Dr Subra Nandy.

Full Mouth Rehabilitation Report

The Department of Prosthodontics & Crown and Bridge in association with Indian Prosthodontic Society, Karnataka State Branch successfully conducted a two-day Value Added Programme on Full Mouth Rehabilitation on 8th and 9th January 2026.The event commenced with a formal inaugural function that was graced by the presence of distinguished guests Dr. Anand Patil, President, Indian Prosthodontic Society, Karnataka Branch,Dr. Sunil Dhaded, Past Immediate President, Indian Prosthodontic Society, Karnataka Branchand Dr. Ramesh Nayakar, EC Member, Indian Prosthodontic Society. The guests were welcomed by Dr Ramakant Nayak, Principal and Dr Hallikerimath.R.B, Professor, Dept. of Prosthodontics & Crown & Bridge.The course witnessed active participation from a total of 70 delegates comprising of private practioner and post graduate students of various parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra.

The first day of the program focused on establishing a strong theoretical and clinical foundation in Full Mouth Rehabilitation. The lecture sessions on Day 1 were comprised of fundamental principles, scope, and philosophy of FMR, with emphasis on occlusal concepts, assessment of vertical dimension, diagnosis, treatment planning, and sequencing of therapy. The lecture sessions were followed by a detailed clinical demonstration, during which participants were able to observe the practical application of the concepts discussed.On Day 2 course was dedicated to digital technology in FMR and implants, case discussion and QA sessions. Dr. Preethi Kusugal,Organizing Chairperson and Dr. Zarir Ruttonji, Organizing Secretary provided overall guidance for the successful planning and execution of the program.Dr. Abhijit Patil, Reader, Dr. Chithra Melavanki, Lecturer and Dr. Somesh Pattanshetti, Lecturer, Department of rosthodontics actively mentored the postgraduate students throughout the event, ensuring effective coordination, continuous academic support, and the smooth conduct of all sessions.

For Non-teaching Staff Date: 20-11-2025

Department Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery

There is a significant lack of knowledge regarding the typical signs and risk factors associated with serious medical conditions among medical students and laypersons. Keeping this in  mind we started with training the staff, students of our college and also the common people in basic life support. The programme was started in 2016 on World Heart Day and has been successful till now.

BLS generally refers to the type of care that first-responders, healthcare providers and public safety professionals provide to anyone who is experiencing cardiac arrest, respiratory distress or an obstructed airway. It requires knowledge and skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using automated external defibrillators (AED) and relieving airway obstructions in patients of every age.

The one day BLS training begins with a pre-assessment to evaluate basic knowledge of the participants .Participants then engage in hands-on demonstrations. During the programme various real life examples are given to make them understand the concept of BLS and to perform BLS. The participants  are trained individually. The training concludes with an Oral post assessment to confirm and validate their skills.

The participants  are trained on interactive manikins and AED. All the aspects of BLS are covered. On successful completion of the course they are awarded with a certificate of BLS training.

39 Non- Teaching Staff were trained in BLS at Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G.Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Belagavi.

Basic Life Support (Bls) Refresher Course, For Dental Teaching Staff

Department Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery

There is a significant lack of knowledge regarding the typical signs and risk factors associated with serious medical conditions among medical students and laypersons. Keeping this in  mind we started with training the staff, students of our college and also the common people in basic life support. The programme was started in 2016 on World Heart Day and has been successful till now.

BLS generally refers to the type of care that first-responders, healthcare providers and public safety professionals provide to anyone who is experiencing cardiac arrest, respiratory distress or an obstructed airway. It requires knowledge and skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using automated external defibrillators (AED) and relieving airway obstructions in patients of every age.

The candidates are trained over 2 days. On the first day of the programme a pre workshop test is conducted to assess the basic knowledge of the participants. Then the lectures and hands on demonstrations are given to the participants over two days. During the programme various real life examples are given make them understand the concept of BLS and to perform BLS. The participants are trained individually and once they are well worse with the technique of BLS at various scenarios post work shop is conducted to assess them. The exam is held in MCQ, OSCE and OSCPE pattern.

During the programme the candidates are provided CPR masks individually. The candidates are trained on interactive manikins and AED. All the aspects of BLS are covered. On successful completion of the course the candidates are awarded with a certificate and a placard of BLS training.

54 Dental Teaching Staff were trained in BLS at Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G.Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Belagavi.

Department Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery

Sound dental sterilization practices in dentistry protect patients, dentists and the whole team. They prevent the growth of bacteria on instruments and surfaces throughout the dental practice. The standard sterilization and disinfection practices block cross contamination.

Microorganisms in blood and saliva can carry bacteria and diseases like hepatitis, herpes, tuberculosis, staphylococcus and streptococcus.   When proper dental sterilization procedures are not used, they can pass from one patient to another. Improper sterilization practices can make patients sick and they can create serious complications if you have any preexisting conditions. Good sterilization practices could actually saves lives.

To embark the importance of these practices the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery conducted two days hands on extensive workshop on sterilization and disinfection in dentistry on 12-11-2025 and 13-11-2025. A total of 41 III year BDS students and 21 postgraduate students participated in the workshop. The workshop was conducted just before their entry into clinical postings to emphasize the need and critical importance of sterilization and disinfection.

Basic Life Support (Bls) Training Programme For Non-teaching Staff

Department Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery

There is a significant lack of knowledge regarding the typical signs and risk factors associated with serious medical conditions among medical students and laypersons. Keeping this in  mind we started with training the staff, students of our college and also the common people in basic life support. The programme was started in 2016 on World Heart Day and has been successful till now.

BLS generally refers to the type of care that first-responders, healthcare providers and public safety professionals provide to anyone who is experiencing cardiac arrest, respiratory distress or an obstructed airway. It requires knowledge and skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using automated external defibrillators (AED) and relieving airway obstructions in patients of every age.

The one day BLS training begins with a pre-assessment to evaluate basic knowledge of the participants .Participants then engage in hands-on demonstrations. During the programme various real life examples are given to make them understand the concept of BLS and to perform BLS. The participants  are trained individually. The training concludes with an Oral post assessment to confirm and validate their skills.

The participants  are trained on interactive manikins and AED. All the aspects of BLS are covered. On successful completion of the course they are awarded with a certificate of BLS training.

45 Non- Teaching Staff were trained in BLS at Maratha Mandal’s Nathajirao G.Halgekar Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Belagavi.