IASO NATCON 2026: Highlights and Reflections from India’s Landmark Surgical Oncology Conference
By Dr. Sumit Shah, Surgical Oncologist & Robotic Surgeon, Prolife Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Pune
Published: 12 October 2026 | Last updated: 12 October 2026
What is IASO NATCON 2026?
IASO NATCON 2026 is the 39th annual national conference of the Indian Association of Surgical Oncology (IASO). It was scheduled for 9–11 October 2026 in Lucknow, with workshops starting on 8 October, and was jointly organised by IASO and the Lucknow Oncology Association. This year’s meeting was especially significant because it celebrated 50 years of IASO, bringing together cancer surgeons from across India.
Why this conference mattered: 50 years of IASO
IASO is the largest professional body of cancer surgeons in India. It began in 1977 as a section of the Association of Surgeons of India and was registered as an independent society in 2004. Its growth runs parallel to the growth of surgical oncology as a specialty in the country, so a 50-year milestone is a moment to honour the pioneers and look ahead.
A special feature of this edition was the presence of all the past presidents of IASO. Seeing the leaders who built the specialty on one stage gave the celebration real historical weight.
Who organised IASO NATCON 2026?
Congratulations are due to the organising team for a very well-run conference:
- Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Mishra
- Prof. Dr. Sameer Gupta
- Dr. Akash Agarwal
- The entire organising committee in Lucknow
My compliments also go to IASO President Dr. T. S. Rao and Secretary Dr. Narendra H. for their leadership in making the 50-year celebration memorable.
What were the highlights of IASO NATCON 2026?
1. Distinguished orations. The orations by Dr. C. S. Pramesh, Dr. Sharad Desai and Dr. T. Clark Gamblin were inspiring and academically enriching, and a highlight for many delegates.
2. Meeting the legends of surgical oncology. It was a privilege to meet stalwarts such as Dr. Jatin Shah and to interact with distinguished colleagues from across the country. These conversations are what make a national conference more than a scientific programme.
3. A strong academic programme and workshops. The scientific sessions and hands-on workshops were informative and relevant to day-to-day cancer surgery practice.
4. Meticulous arrangements. The venue, transport and food were organised with care, and the warm hospitality of the Lucknow team stood out.
Why do surgical oncology conferences matter for patients?
Cancer surgery is a rapidly evolving field, and surgeons who attend national conferences bring that learning back to their patients. Conferences like IASO NATCON help surgeons to:
- Learn about advances in surgical technique and multidisciplinary cancer care
- Exchange practical experience with peers and senior mentors
- Strengthen referral networks and collaboration across institutions
- Keep pace with progress in minimally invasive and robotic cancer surgery and laparoscopic cancer surgery
This continuous learning supports the care we provide across cancer types at Prolife, including head and neck cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, hepato-pancreatico-biliary cancer, gynecologic cancer, urologic cancer and sarcomas.
I regularly take part in national and international academic meetings. You can read about my earlier participation in the Russian School of Colorectal Surgery conference in Moscow.
Frequently asked questions
When was IASO NATCON 2026 held?
It was held from 9 to 11 October 2026, with pre-conference workshops beginning on 8 October.
Where was IASO NATCON 2026 held?
In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
What milestone did IASO celebrate at NATCON 2026?
Fifty years of the Indian Association of Surgical Oncology, attended by all of its past presidents.
Who is the current IASO President and Secretary?
Dr. T. S. Rao is the President and Dr. Narendra H. is the Secretary, as of this 2026 conference.
What is IASO?
The Indian Association of Surgical Oncology is India’s largest professional body of cancer surgeons. It promotes the science and practice of surgical oncology and multidisciplinary cancer care.
Where can I consult a surgical oncologist in Pune?
Dr. Sumit Shah consults at Prolife Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Pune. You can book an appointment online or call the 24×7 helpline at +91-9607079019.
Dr. Sumit Shah is a Surgical Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon, and founder of Prolife Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Pune. He holds DNB (General Surgery), DNB (Surgical Oncology) and a Fellowship in Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery.
