Indian Public Health Observership Conclave
(IPHOC) - 2026
Shaping future public health leaders through hands-on
experience and expert insights
The Indian Public Health Observership Conclave (IPHOC)
A collaborative initiative between the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) and St. John’s Medical College & Research Institute, the Indian Public Health Observership Conclave (IPHOC) offers health professionals from India and abroad a unique opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to India’s public health system, with a special focus on chronic disease control.
Through observation, learning, and collaboration with leading experts, participants can strengthen their academic and professional skills while also developing a deeper understanding of India’s diverse social and cultural context, thereby enriching their perspective on public health in low- and middle-income settings.
Program Highlights
Unique Observership Experience designed for health professionals worldwide.
Immersive India Exposure: 3 weeks in India, including 10 days field immersion.
Expert Mentorship from a seasoned mentor for guidance and support.
Lifelong Network with like-minded professionals & friendships that last a lifetime!
Cultural immersion, including visits to heritage sites and Indian culinary experience.
Buddy to help with logistics and cultural insights.
Prof. D Prabhakaran
President-Elect, World Heart Federation,
Executive Director
Centre for Chronic Disease Control, New Delhi
Prof. Denis Xavier
Professor and Head, Pharmacology
Division of Clinical Research & Training
St. John’s Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru
Prof. Atiya Faruqui
Professor of Pharmacology,
Faculty at Division of Clinical Research & training
St. John’s Medical Hospital and Research Institute, Bengaluru
Dr Arun P Jose
Deputy Director & Head
BRIDGE Centre for Digital Health,
Centre for Chronic Disease Control, New Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)
The Indian Public Health Observership Conclave (IPHOC) is a collaborative initiative by the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) and St. John’s Medical College & Research Institute. It offers health professionals from India and abroad an opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to India’s public health system, with a focus on chronic disease control. The program combines observation, learning, and collaboration with experts to help participants strengthen their skills and understand the social and cultural context of public health in low- and middle-income countries.
Eligible candidates include national and international students and young healthcare professionals (0–3 years of experience) with degrees in Public Health, Global Health, Medicine, or Clinical Research.
Yes, Indian residents are eligible to apply. Proficiency in English is required.
The program fee for:
- International students: USD 4,500
- International faculty/others: USD 5,500
- Indian students: INR 1,00,000
- Indian faculty/others: INR 1,50,000
Fees include accommodation and meals. Travel to/from India to be arranged by participants however, transport will be provided for field visits in Week 4 (Delhi-NCR) and Week 7 (Bengaluru). Travel to other states to be arranged by participants (logistic support will be provided by CCDC admin office)
Participants who choose to arrange their own stay will pay a reduced fee of USD 2,800, which excludes accommodation and meals.
Registration opens on 1 March 2026.
Key dates include:
Information Webinar: 5 August 2025
Full Application Period: 15 September to 15 November 2025
Announcement of Provisionally Selected Candidates: 19 December 2025
Fee Payment Deadline: 21 January 2026
Program Start Date: 6 July 2026
The pre-immersion phase consists of a series of webinars designed to prepare fellows for the immersive learning experience. These sessions cover an introduction to the program, an overview of the Indian public health system and chronic diseases, and foundational concepts in research methodology, implementation science, and biostatistics.
The immersion phase includes learning sessions in Delhi and Bengaluru, visits to healthcare facilities, field-site placements based on participants’ interests, cultural experiences, and concludes with presentations, certification, and a closing ceremony.
Shaping future public health leaders through hands-on experience and expert insights
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