The Department of Clinical Research at the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, launched a five-week training program from January 6 to February 7, 2025, sponsored by the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). As part of this initiative, a two-day workshop titled “Training Workshop on Bioethics” was held on January 6–7, 2025, in collaboration with the Bioethics Unit, Bengaluru. This sensitization program was designed to enhance the ethical competencies of faculty and Ethics Committees in Uttarakhand. The workshop was inaugurated by distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Kiran Katoch from NJILOMD, ICMR, as Chief Guest; Dr. Rajendra Dobal, Vice-Chancellor, SRHU; Dr. Vijendra Devisingh Chauhan, Director General (Academic & Development), SRHU; Dr. Ashok Kumar Deorari, Principal, HIMS, and Organizing Chairperson; Dr. Bindu Dey, Director of Research, SRHU, and Organizing Chairperson; Dr. Roli Mathur, Scientist G and Head, ICMR Bioethics Unit, Bengaluru; and Dr. Nikku Yadav, Organizing Secretary and Head, Department of Clinical Research, HIMS.

The workshop focused on promoting adherence to ethical standards and Good Clinical Practices (GCP) in clinical research through expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and practical exercises. Key topics included the principles of research ethics, roles and responsibilities of Ethics Committees, application of GCP guidelines, and strategies for addressing ethical dilemmas. The event was attended by 100 participants, including faculty members and Ethics Committee representatives from five reputed medical colleges in Uttarakhand: Doon Medical College, Graphic Era Medical College, Government Medical College Haridwar, and Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences.

This workshop served as a platform for capacity building and fostering collaboration among ethics oversight bodies in the region. By promoting a deeper understanding of ethical guidelines and cultivating a culture of responsible research, the program made a significant contribution to ensuring that clinical research in Uttarakhand adheres to national and international standards of integrity and compliance. The five-week training program will continue to build on these efforts by providing intensive training to 30 postgraduate students, strengthening ethical research practices in the region.