Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, a Professor of Medicine & Diabetes, has stressed the importance of maintaining a strong clinical foundation in medical education, even with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Dr. Singh made these remarks during the release of the second edition of the Postgraduate Textbook of “Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition,” edited by Prof. Anupam Sibal and Dr. Sarath Gopalan, featuring a foreword by Prof. Kathleen B Schwartz from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
According to Dr. Singh, AI should be used as a tool to enhance medical knowledge, not replace it. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, he believes a solid clinical understanding must come first, with AI serving as a valuable assistant and facilitator. He cautioned that relying on AI before mastering fundamental medical concepts could hinder the learning process necessary for a competent clinician, one capable of providing care without advanced technology.
Dr. Singh addressed the rapid growth of medical knowledge, noting the increasing pace of research and publication. He emphasized the need for medical education to prioritize conceptual clarity and core clinical training. He acknowledged that while technology has made information more accessible, learning should remain rooted in fundamental understanding and practical clinical experience. The Minister also underscored the importance of continuously updating medical education systems to address emerging challenges, including the integration of technology and the growing complexity of diseases. He advocated for encouraging young medical professionals to establish a strong foundation before specializing.
The second edition of the “Textbook of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition” includes recent progress in the field, expanding to 45 chapters with new topics. It provides in-depth coverage of areas such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Neuro-gastroenterology, Celiac Disease and Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy. It also examines emerging fields such as the role of genetics in gastrointestinal and liver diseases, endoscopy, and liver transplantation. It was noted that nearly 30% of children who visit pediatricians suffer from gastrointestinal and liver-related disorders, highlighting the importance of specialized training in this field.
The textbook is designed as a resource for trainees in pediatrics, pediatric gastroenterology, and practicing pediatricians. The publication has been edited by Prof. Anupam Sibal, Group Medical Director and Senior Pediatric Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist, Apollo Hospitals Group, and Dr. Sarath Gopalan, Consultant Pediatric Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist at Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Delhi. According to information released by the publishing house, Dr. Mohammad Ishaq Malik, Associate Professor, Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Government Medical College, Srinagar, is the Co-Editor.
Prof. Kathleen B Schwartz, Professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, wrote the book’s foreword. The first edition of the textbook was published in 2016 and released by the then Union Health Minister. According to the publishers, the present edition builds upon that foundation by incorporating the latest scientific developments and clinical practices in the field, providing an essential resource for medical professionals in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
