The meeting is being held under the joint auspices of the Paediatric Rheumatology European Society and the Rheumatology Chapter of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics. It has been possible to plan such a large and star studded faculty at superb venues only because of generous grants from three sources :

The principal or anchor sponsor of the course is PReS (Paediatric Rheumatology European Society) www.pres.org.uk. PReS is a European scientific society for healthcare professionals in the field of paediatric rheumatology. Its mission is to:

	Promote knowledge of paediatric rheumatic diseases
	Stimulate research in this field
	Disseminate knowledge through scientific meetings and publications
	Provide guidelines and standards for good clinical practice
	Provide guidelines and standards for the training of doctors and allied health professionals in the practice of paediatric rheumatology

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A major co sponsor / co host is the Hargobind Foundation (www.hargobind.com). Established in 1987 by Mr H.G Makhijani in loving memory of his parents, this Mumbai based philanthropic organization has done yeoman service in the areas of medical / paramedical education and health care, notably of senior citizens. The medical fellowships offered for brief training abroad have been availed of by several young and experienced doctors who have brought their skills back to India. This program fits in with the philosophy of the trust of transferring medical knowledge to developing countries.

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The supporting sponsor is Jaslok Hospital and Research Center (www.jaslokhospital.net) . This 334 bedded hospital has been one of India’s best known tertiary care centers. It boasts of one of the earliest paediatric rheumatology centers in India and has a strong commitment to continuing medical education. The bursaries are courtesy of this sponsor.