Department of Community Medicine
The Department of Community Medicine is dedicated to enhancing public health through education, research, and services. Our mission is to address health issues at the community level, focusing on preventive care and promoting well-being. The Department offers comprehensive training for future healthcare professionals to address broad health issues, engage with communities, and implement effective interventions, fostering a holistic approach to patient care and public health. Faculty and staff are committed to delving into health disparities, conducting impactful research, and collaborating with local government and organizations to improve health outcomes. The Department provide consultation in research design, research methods and statistical methods during various stages of research projects. The commitment is to build healthier, resilient communities through impactful collaboration and action.
The Department of Community Medicine at ANIIMS stands at the intersection of clinical excellence and public health leadership. We are dedicated to shaping future physicians who understand health not just within the walls of a hospital but within the broader context of community and environment
Our comprehensive program merges rigorous academic teaching with extensive field-based training, fostering a practical understanding of epidemiology, preventive healthcare and health system management. Through our network of Rural and Urban Health Training Centres, students gain invaluable hands-on experience, engaging directly with diverse communities to address real-world health challenges
Beyond teaching, the department is a hub of active service and research. We drive community health initiatives, manage specialized clinics for non-communicable diseases and partner with local health authorities to conduct impactful outreach. Our work is committed to improving healthcare services and serving as a vital public health resource for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Department of Community Medicine
| S.no | Name | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Ajay Raj S | Professor and Head |
| 2 | Dr. Samar Raesa Hossain | Associate Professor |
| 3 | Dr. Amrita Burma | Assistant Professor |
| 4 | Dr. Aanchal Anand | Assistant Professor |
| 5 | Dr. Gayathri P S | Senior Resident |
| 6 | Dr. Mitul Saha | Senior Resident |
| 7 | Dr. Anagha J | Junior Resident |
Non-Technical Staff
| S.no | Name | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | S Shivaraj | Medico Social Worker |
| 2 | T Vasu | Medico Social Worker |
| 3 | Nikita Barla | Medico Social Worker |
| 4 | Shilpa Maitra | Health Educator |
| 5 | T Jothi | Stenographer |
| 6 | Reshab Lall | Health Inspector |
Infrastructure
The Department of Community Medicine is supported by a robust and purpose-built infrastructure designed to facilitate a comprehensive learning experience. Our facilities include a dedicated seminar room for small-group teaching, a well-equipped demonstration hall, a practical laboratory, a specialized museum and a resource-rich library
Demonstration Room
The Demonstration Room serves as a primary space for interactive learning and detailed discussions. This environment enables personalized instruction and active student engagement. To enhance the educational experience, the room is provisioned with contemporary visual aids, specialized educational models, and integrated multimedia systems
Practical Laboratory
Our Practical Laboratory supports hands-on learning in community medicine. Students use this space to develop skills in key areas like entomology for vector identification, water quality analysis, and environmental health assessment. The facility provides direct experience with public health tools and methods, preparing students for fieldwork and community health practice
Library
Department Library maintains a comprehensive collection of learning resources fully aligned with NMC guidelines. The facility houses an updated collection of standard textbooks, reference materials, and national and international journals relevant to community medicine. Students and faculty have access to both physical and digital resources that support the curriculum and research needs
Museum
The Department's Museum features a collection of public health specimens and educational displays. Our exhibits include informative IEC materials on health topics and preventive measures, nutrition-focused specimens demonstrating dietary impacts on health, and detailed displays on vaccine administration and cold chain management. The museum also houses interactive models and visual charts, providing students with practical insights into key public health concepts through hands-on learning experiences.
Seminar Room
The Seminar Room serves as a functional academic space for departmental activities. Equipped with a projector and visual aids, it supports lectures, student presentations and group discussions. The seminar room supports everything from interactive lectures and student presentations to workshops and guest talks
Activities
The Department of Community Medicine maintains a structured portfolio of field-based learning and community health initiatives aimed at improving public health outcomes.
- The department regularly conducts community awareness programs focusing on preventive healthcare, disease management, and health promotion in collaboration with the District Health Services (DHS).
- Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions are organized to keep healthcare professionals updated with current public health practices and advancements.
- Skill-building training workshops are conducted for healthcare and community health workers to strengthen service delivery at the grassroots level.
- In accordance with NMC guidelines, the Family Adoption Program has been implemented for MBBS students since 2022. This program provides students with firsthand exposure to community living conditions while delivering health guidance and screening services to adopted families.
These initiatives collectively strengthen healthcare delivery, promote experiential learning, and contribute to the development of a health-aware community.
Community Medicine Units & Activities
Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Chouldari
RHTC Chouldari has been serving as ANIIMS dedicated rural health center since 2017, providing essential healthcare services to approximately 5,312 community members while serving as a crucial training ground for medical students. The center oversees two health sub-centers and nine Anganwadi centers, forming an integrated healthcare network in the region.The facility offers comprehensive medical services including routine patient care, specialized clinics for non-communicable diseases and adolescent health, and complete laboratory services. Alongside clinical care, the center conducts regular training programs for community health workers and serves as a practical learning site for medical students, connecting academic knowledge with real-world public health practice.
The centre provides routine patient care, specialized clinics for non-communicable diseases and adolescent health, complete laboratory services, and regular training programs for ASHA and ANM workers. It also serves as a vital field training site for undergraduate medical students.
Urban Health and Wellness Centre (UHWC), Haddo
Urban Health and Wellness Centre (UHTC) Haddo stands as ANIIMS specialized urban training facility, delivering comprehensive healthcare to a population of 13,800 while providing medical students with essential urban public health exposure. The centre offers a complete spectrum of urban health services, from primary care and preventive screenings to chronic disease management and health promotion activities.
Operating through a network of 29 Anganwadi centres, UHTC Haddo maintains active collaborations with local schools, NGOs, and community organizations to address the distinct health challenges of urban populations. The centre's health awareness programs and community events serve dual purposes: providing residents with vital health information and preventive strategies, while offering medical students practical experience in urban community engagement.
Community Health Center (CHC), Bambooflat
Community Health Centre, Bambooflat is a secondary-level healthcare facility under the aegis of Department of Community Medicine, providing comprehensive medical services to a population of 17,243. The centre supervises four Health and Wellness Centres - Tsunami Pahad, Shore Point, Hope Town, and Stewart Gunj - while providing technical guidance to 28 Anganwadi centres in its operational area.The centre delivers essential healthcare through outpatient and inpatient services, diagnostic facilities, referral systems, and follow-up care. Its operational framework includes routine health camps, community outreach programs, and preventive healthcare initiatives that address local health priorities.As part of its academic integration, the centre facilitates community postings for medical students, offering them exposure to the organization and delivery of healthcare at the community level. This posting enables students to understand the functioning of a Community Health Centre and its role in the public health system, while observing common health conditions prevalent in the community.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Clinic
The NCD clinic plays a crucial role in managing chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through comprehensive care strategies. At the clinic, patients receive opportunistic screening for various NCDs, allowing for early detection and intervention. The clinic also provides personalized lifestyle modification advice aimed at mitigating risk factors and promoting healthier living. In addition to these preventive measures, the clinic offers thorough screening for complications associated with NCDs, ensuring that patients receive timely management and support for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate health concerns but also fosters long-term well-being and disease management.
Community Awareness Activities
The Community Medicine Department regularly conducts community awareness activities, including health talks, role plays, screening camps, and informational campaigns. These activities are especially prominent on Health Days, when they focus on specific health issues through targeted sessions and events. Collaborating with the District Health Services (DHS) and local community networks, the department organizes outreach programs, health fairs, and preventive care initiatives to engage communities and address pressing health concerns.
Academic & Field Training
Community Medicine teaching encompasses a multifaceted approach to equip students with a thorough understanding of public health. The curriculum includes lectures that provide foundational knowledge on community health principles and practices. Small group discussions encourage interactive learning and critical thinking, while demonstrations offer practical insights. Clinico-social case work-ups allow students to analyze real-life cases, integrating clinical and social factors. Community visits and visit to institutions of public health importance, provide experiential learning and a broader perspective on health systems.
Dr. Ajay Raj Sethuraman
Professor and Head, Department of Community Medicine
Education
- Meenakshi Medical College Hospital & Research Institute
- MD (Community Medicine), Rajah Muthiah Medical College (2013)
Experience
Over 13 years of teaching experience, progressing from Assistant Professor to Professor at ANIIMS. Published extensively with research on public health topics including smartphone addiction, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and dengue.
Achievements
- Principal Investigator for a NACO-funded project on HIV testing in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Published multiple research papers in prestigious journals like PubMed and Scopus.
Professional Memberships
- Life Member, Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine
- Life Member, Epidemiology Foundation of India
Additional Roles & Responsibilities
- Public Grievance Officer
- Accommodation In-charge
- Member, Advisory Committee , ANIIMS
Research Project conducted(details) & the Funding agency
- Principal investigator for the research project titled “Testing gap in 1st 95 among selected population in Andaman and Nicobar Islands; A mixed method study” funded by NACO.
- Principal investigator for the research project titled “Determinants of adherence to TLD regimen in PLHIV of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Principal investigator for National Mental Health Survey 2 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands funded by NIMHANS, Bengaluru.
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raj SA, Sivakumar K, Sujatha K. Prevalence of dyslipidemia in South Indian adults: an urban-rural comparison. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2016 |
| 2 | Sethuraman AR, Rao S, Charlette L, Thatkar PV, Vincent V. Smartphone addiction among medical college students in ANI. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2018 |
| 3 | Rao S, Sethuraman AR*, Thatkar P. Comparative study of Smartphone Addiction among Arts and Medical College Students. | Natl J Community Med, 2019 |
| 4 | Stephen LC, Jahnavi G, Thatkar PV, Rao S, Gaur BPS, Sethuraman AR*. Vector Control Methods Adopted in A&N Islands. | Natl J Community Med, 2018 |
| 5 | Rao S, Sethuraman AR*, Thatkar PV. Multidrug resistant tuberculosis in the isles. | Int J Advanced Community Med, 2019 |
| 6 | Rao S, Raj SA, Ramanathan V, Sharma A, Dhar M, Thatkar PV, et al. Prevalence of dyslexia among school children in Mysore. | Int J Med Sci Public Health, 2017 |
| 7 | Rao S, Raj SA, Thatkar PV, Burma SP. Trends of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis in Sri Vijaya Puram. | NJRCM, 2017 |
| 8 | Sivakumar K, Raj SA, Sujatha K. Comparative interventional study on leucorrhea regimens. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2017 |
| 9 | Jahnavi G, Rao S, Thatkar PV, Sethuraman AR, Julius LCS, Gaur BPS. Community Perception on Leprosy in the Islands. | Natl J Community Med, 2019 |
| 10 | Roy A, Rao S, Thatkar PV, Sethuraman AR. Hansen’s disease in the archipelago. | Int J Med Sci Public Health, 2018 |
| 11 | Shakthivel N, Amarnath AM, Ahamed F, Rath RS, Sethuraman AR. Stress and coping among 1st year medical students. | Int J Med Public Health, 2017 |
| 12 | Singh SS, Rao S, Thatkar PV, Raj AS. Scenario of malaria in A&N Islands. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2017 |
| 13 | Singh R, Rao S, Charlette L, Thatkar PV, Rajaram N, Sethuraman AR. Correlates of stunting among children in Sri Vijaya Puram. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2018 |
| 14 | Rao S, Sethuraman AR*, Thatkar PV. Incidence of dengue in the Islands. | Int J Community Med Public Health, 2020 |
| 15 | Sethuraman AR, Agrawal RK, et al. Tobacco use among adults in Sri Vijaya Puram. | Indian J Prev Soc Med, 2021 |
| 16 | Rao S, Budh N, Abdul Salam A, Mohammed C, Jain A, Sethuraman AR* et al. Training on Breast Self-Examination. | Indian J Public Health Res Dev, 2021 |
| 17 | Sethuraman AR, Boovaragaswamy C, Prabhakaran K, Ganansabai G, Kumar M. Electrical and Electronic waste management-Knowledge, attitude and practice among medical students from South India. Lat. Am. J. Pharm. 2023; 42(3). | Lat Am J Pharm, 2023 |
| 18 | Rao S, Jain A, Budh N, Sethuraman AR* et al. Knowledge and practice about breast cancer. | GJMEDPH, 2022 |
| 19 | Anand A, Sharma P, Sethuraman AR*. Awareness and Practices Regarding Leptospirosis in ANI. | Cureus, DOI:10.7759/cureus |
| 20 | Anand A, Sharma P, Sethuraman AR, Begum S, Anand V. Awareness and Practices Regarding Leptospirosis in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Union Territory of India. Cureus. 15(8):e44305. | Cureus,2024 |
| 21 | Sridhar Y, Anand A, Sethuraman A, Hossain S. Understanding antimicrobial self-medication practices in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. Cureus. 2025 Mar 12;17(3):e80473. doi:10.7759/cureus.80473 | Cureus,2025 |
| 22 | Anand A, Hossain S, Sethuraman AR, Tomar A, Yashika D. The Association of Body Mass Index With Dietary Habits, Screen Time, and Physical Activity Among School Children in Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Cureus. 2025 Sep 18;17(9):e92599 | Cureus,2025 |
Dr Samar Hossain
Associate Professor
About
Dr. Samar Hossain is a seasoned healthcare leader with over 10 years of experience in public health, medical innovation, and project management. Currently serving as a Public Health Specialist and Assistant Professor at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr. Hossain has spearheaded crucial healthcare initiatives, including the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and managed large-scale public health programs. She holds an MD, an MBA in Hospital Administration, and a PG Diploma in Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine. Recognized for her leadership, she has received the Eminent Medical & Health Education Teacher Award and holds a Guinness World Record. She also serves as the Nodal Officer for the National One Health Program at ANIIMS, coordinating interdisciplinary efforts to address human, animal, and environmental health challenges. Skilled in epidemiology, financial management, and medical technologies, she has made significant contributions to enhancing patient care and strengthening public health systems.
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hossain S, Sharma P, Sen V. A Study of the knowledge and practice regarding menstrual hygiene in rural adolescent school going girls in an Indian Cosmopolitan city. | J Pharm Pract Commun Med, 2017 |
| 2 | Hossain S. COVID-19: An Emerging Pandemic. | - |
| 3 | Budh N, Hossain S, Garg S. Zika Virus: An Emerging Threat. Associate Editor. | J Pharm Pract Commun Med, 2019 |
| 4 | Khatri V, Sharma P, Hossain S, Sen V. Study of disability level of daily activity in geriatric population living in rural area of an Indian City. | J Pharm Pract Commun Med, 2017 |
| 5 | Hossain S, Singh P, Sen V. Study on Awareness and Practices of Menstruation amongst Unmarried Female Adolescents. | - |
| 6 | Hossain S, Sen V. Socio cultural taboos and restrictions during menstruation. | J Pharm Pract Commun Med, 2017 |
| 7 | Basu S, Rajeev A, Anand A, Hossain S, Singh MM. Calorie-and Protein-Deficient Diets Despite Adequate Dietary Diversity among Pregnant Women. | Indian J Community Med, 2022 |
| 8 | Basu S, Garg S, Hossain S, Gupta D, Duggal K. The readiness of frontline health workers in diabetes and hypertension management. | Int J Noncommunicable Dis, 2022 |
| 9 | Jhakar A, Sharma P, Hossain S, Yadav S, Sen V. Study of Substance Abuse by Street Children in Jaipur City. | J Pharm Pract Commun Med, 2017 |
| 10 | Hossain S, Singh N, Anand A. Monkeypox: An Emerging Global Health Threat. | Indian J Appl Res, 2022 |
| 11 | Singh N, Hossain S, Bage RN, et al. Testing strategies & measures against COVID-19. | Glob J Res Anal, 2022 |
| 12 | Arora P, Budh N, Hossain SR. First-year Medical UG Students’ Perceptions regarding Family Adoption Program. | J Med Academics, 2023 |
| 13 | Hossain S, Anand A, Sharma A, Shah U. A new variant of COVID-19: But is it less deadly? | Short Communication, 2022 |
| 14 | Hossain S, Sharma AD, Garg S, Anand A. How to protect the children from the third wave of COVID. | J Community Health Manag, 2022 |
| 15 | Hossain S, Goswami S, Arora H, Mishra A, Arora E. Assessment of knowledge, perception and intent among health professional students on breastfeeding: A cross-sectional study. Indian J Forensic Community Med. 2023;10(4):166–9. doi:10.18231/j.ijfcm.2023.032. | Cureus, 2023 |
| 16 | Mahajan P, Anand A, Hossain S, et al. Exploring Patient Satisfaction and Determinants in Outpatient Services: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus. 2025 Jan 12; 17(1): e77345. doi:10.7759/cureus.77345 | Cureus, 2025 |
| 17 | Anand A, Hossain S, Sethuraman AR, Tomar A, Yashika D. The Association of Body Mass Index With Dietary Habits, Screen Time, and Physical Activity Among School Children in Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Cureus. 2025 Sep 18;17(9):e92599. | Cureus, 2025 |
| 18 | Hossain S, Anand A, Raj A, Begum S, Kassim S. Healthcare Access and Rehabilitation Challenges Two Decades Post-Tsunami: A Qualitative Study from South Andaman, India. | Cureus, 2025 |
| 19 | Sridhar Y, Anand A, Sethuraman A, Hossain S. Understanding antimicrobial self-medication practices in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. Cureus. 2025 Mar 12;17(3):e80473. doi:10.7759/cureus.80473 | Cureus, 2025 |
| 20 | Anand A, Mandal I, Hossain S. BG Prasad Scale 2025: An Updated Framework for Socioeconomic Assessment in India. health.;3(4):5 | Cureus, 2025 |
| 21 | Hossain S, Borle AL, Mandal I, Arora E, Mishra A, Gupta T, Singh M, Baghel S. Practices Towards Energy Drink Consumption Among the Students of a Medical College in New Delhi, India. Cureus. 2025 Feb 28;17(2). | Cureus, 2025 |
| 22 | Hossain S, Anand A, Sukumaran GP, Raj A. A Comparative Analysis of Nomophobia and Social Media Addiction Among Medical and Non-Medical Undergraduates in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences. 2025 Nov 4;4(13):1392–7. | Cureus, 2025 |
Dr Amrita Burma
Assistant Professor
About
Dr Amrita Burma is a highly qualified medical professional with a solid foundation in Community Medicine. She completed her MBBS from HMCH, Utkal University, Odisha and MD in Community Medicine from Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Odisha. Throughout her academic journey, she has earned several prestigious honours, including an Honour in Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, and the Vice Chancellor’s Silver Medal for securing the highest percentage of marks in the MD/MS programme for the year 2020.
With over three years of experience as an Assistant Professor, she has developed a robust expertise in teaching, mentoring, and academic contributions, making her a well-rounded professional in the field.
Achievements
- Best Poster Presentation award among MD trainees at the IAPSMCON Odisha State Branch in 2018.
- Honoured to be invited as a judge for the National Conference of the Indian Association of Preventive Medicine (IAPSMCON) 2024, where she adjudicated a session on Mental Health at the TMA Pai Convention Centre, Mangalore, from February 8-10, 2024.
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burma A, Kumar D, Mandal AK. Seroprevalence of COVID-19 Antibody among Health Care Workers in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. | Rec Adv Path Lab Med, 2020 |
| 2 | Kumar D, Burma A, Mandal AK. A seroprevalence study of COVID-19 antibody after 1st wave in South Andaman. | Clin Epidemiol & Global Health, 2021 |
| 3 | Kumar D, Burma A, Mandal AK, Joshy V. Comparative Analysis of COVID-19 IgG Antibody level in symptomatic vs asymptomatic population. | Cureus, 2022 |
| 4 | Kumar D, Burma A, Peter S, Ansari MA, Patankar A. Diabetes self-management practice & glycemic control among T2DM patients. | J Family Med Prim Care, 2024 |
| 5 | Kar S, Samantaray PC, Thakur B, Das BC, Burma A. Domestic violence in women of reproductive age group in rural Odisha. | Women’s Health & Complications, 2018 |
| 6 | Kar S, Singh AP, Samantaray PC, Patro S, Thakur B, Esther A, Burma A, Das BC. Safety and tolerability of tetanus vaccine in healthy adults. | J Evid Based Med Healthc, 2019 |
| 7 | Mishra A, Mohapatra I, Burma A, Sarkar B. Attitudinal change toward yoga in medical curriculum. | D Y Patil J Health Sci, 2022 |
| 8 | Choudhury S, Dubey S, Zumu M, Mustafa PP, Burma A, Kumar S. Platelet parameters in predicting COVID-19 severity. | Cureus, 2024 |
| 9 | 7. Burma A, Panigrahi OP, Panigrahi A, Kumar D, Patankar A. A cross sectional study regarding the self medication practices and its associated factors among residents of Bhubaneswar city, Odisha. Clin Epidemiol Glob Health [Internet]. 2025;33(102013):102013. Available from http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cegh.2025.102013 | Cureus, 2025 |
Dr Aanchal Anand
Assistant Professor
About
Dr. Aanchal Anand is presently engaged as Assistant Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences. A distinguished alumna of Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, she holds both an MBBS and an MD in Community Medicine from this prestigious institution along with DNB degree in same discipline. With profound expertise in Epidemiology, Nutrition and Environment, Dr. Anand is well-versed in healthcare data analytics and orchestration of comprehensive research studies. Her scholarly contributions include numerous publications in prominent indexed national and international journals, complemented by active participation in over 20 conferences. An adept in biostatistics, she possesses a stellar record in project management and interdisciplinary collaborations. Beyond academia, Dr. Anand is a passionate advocate for public health, spearheading NGO-driven educational and healthcare initiatives. Additionally, she moderates a global Community Medicine forum with nearly 10,000 members. Her technical acumen spans SPSS, EpiCollect, MS Office, Mendeley and NVivo .
Achievements
- Nodal Officer for drafting the State Action Plan for "National Climate Change and Human Health'' Programme for the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Successfully organized Multi-disciplinary Health camps for the Agriculture and Fisheries communities of Sri Vijaya Puram addressing the specific health needs of more than 600 beneficiaries.
- District Nodal Officer for Sub-National Certification Survey for TB elimination across South Andaman and Nicobar district.
- Organized GB Pant Hospital’s first AV Fistula Camp.
- Member of the Health and Nutrition Survey Team for the Jarawa Tribe, one of the six indigenous tribes of Andaman & Nicobar Islands for their Nutritional Assessment.
- Assigned as the Nodal Officer from Health Sector for drafting data, presentation and address queries related to Tribal Health in Andaman & Nicobar Islands with a focus on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) during the Parliamentary Committee visit to Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Drafted question papers for various professional exams
- Reviewer for NCERT chapters on crucial health topics including Vaccination, Breast Cancer, Snake Bites, Balanced Diet and Family Planning.
- Authored book chapter on “Formulation of Parental Support Group for DSD” published by Springer Nature in the book Children with Differences in Sex Development.
- Drafted the Annual report of ANIIMS for the year 2022-2023.
- Drafted the Mentor- Mentee Logbook for Student Mentorship Program in ANIIMS
- Member of the Institutional Scientific Research Committee (ISRC), ANIIMS
- Member of the Student Mentorship Committee, ANIIMS
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mahajan P, Anand A, Hossain S, Vishwakarma M. Exploring Patient Satisfaction and Determinants in Outpatient Services: A Cross-Sectional Study. | Cureus, 2025 |
| 2 | Anand A, Mandal I, Hossain S. BG Prasad Scale 2025: An Updated Framework for Socioeconomic Assessment in India. | Health, 2025 |
| 3 | Hossain S, Anand A, Raj A, Begum S, Kassim S. Healthcare Access and Rehabilitation Challenges Two Decades Post-Tsunami: A Qualitative Study from South Andaman, India. | Submitted |
| 4 | Anand A, Sharma P. Prevalence and Determinants of Malnutrition Among Adolescents in Delhi: A Rural-Urban Comparison Study. | Cureus, 2023 |
| 5 | Anand A, Hossain S, Sethuraman AR, Tomar A, Yashika D. The Association of Body Mass Index With Dietary Habits, Screen Time, and Physical Activity Among School Children in Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. | Cureus, 2025 |
| 6 | Yashwant S, Aanchal A, Ajay S, Samar H. Understanding Antimicrobial Self-Medication Practices in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. | Cureus, 2025 |
| 7 | Anand A, Sharma P, Sethuraman AR, Begum S, Anand V. Awareness and Practices Regarding Leptospirosis in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Union Territory of India. | Cureus, 2023 |
| 8 | Sravani T, Palaniappan P, Shaju V, Anand A. The Prevalence and Pattern of Congenital Anomalies Among Neonates Admitted in a Tertiary Care Hospital in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Retrospective Study. | Cureus, 2023 |
| 9 | Basu S, Rajeev A, Anand A, Hossain S, Singh MM. Calorie- and Protein-Deficient Diets Despite Adequate Dietary Diversity Among Pregnant Women in a Low-Income Urban Area in Delhi, India. | Indian Journal of Community Medicine, 2022 |
| 10 | Anand A, Luthra M, Ratan R. Formulation of Parent Support Group for DSD. | Springer Nature, 2024 |
| 11 | Anand A, Shah U, Hossain S. Variants of the COVID Virus Before the Onset of Omicron. | Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, 2022 |
| 12 | Hossain S, Sharma AD, Garg S, Anand A. How to Protect the Children from the Third Wave of COVID. | Journal of Community Health Management, 2023 |
| 13 | Hossain S, Anand A, Sukumaran GP, Raj A. A Comparative Analysis of Nomophobia and Social Media Addiction Among Medical and Non-Medical Undergraduates in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. | Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences, 2025 |
Dr. Gayathri P S
Senior Resident
About
Dr. Gayathri P. S., MBBS, MD (Community Medicine) has demonstrated consistent academic excellence, having secured University First Rank in MD Community Medicine from Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS). A dedicated and effective teacher, she is actively involved in undergraduate medical education and mentoring of MBBS students. She has authored multiple research papers published in indexed journals. She has also engaged in health communication and advocacy, having delivered expert interviews on public health topics through Doordarshan and All India Radio (AIR), Andaman & Nicobar, thereby contributing to community awareness and health promotion. Additionally, she serves as the Nodal Officer for Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) in ANIIMS. She has been actively involved in the planning and execution of departmental projects, public health programmes, and community outreach initiatives, including health camps, and has periodically served as a resource person for district- and state-level government training programmes.
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ponath Sukumaran G, Kurian N, Kurian NM, Rasheed R. Female is associated with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2023: 16:3173–4. doi:10.2147/DMSO.S442055 | Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes., 2023 |
| 2 | Jackson P, Ponath Sukumaran G, Babu C, Tony MC, Jack DS, Reshma VR, et al. Artificial intelligence in medical education - perception among medical students. BMC Med Educ. 2024;24(1):804 | BMC Med Educ., 2024 |
| 3 | Hossain S, Anand A, Sukumaran GP, Raj A. A Comparative Analysis of Nomophobia and Social Media Addiction Among Medical and Non-Medical Undergraduates in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences. 2025 Nov 4;4(13):1392–7 | Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences., 2025 |
Dr. Mitul Saha
Senior Resident
About
Dr.Mitul Saha is a dedicated healthcare professional with an MBBS from Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal, and an MD in Community Medicine from Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha. With expertise in public health, epidemiology, and preventive medicine, she is passionate about promoting health and wellness in communities, currently working as a Senior in Community Medicine. With a strong academic background, she has also shared her knowledge with the next generation of healthcare professionals, having 9 months of teaching experience in a medical college. She is actively involved in multiple projects and has published several papers in international journals, showcasing her research prowess.She has also presented papers and posters at national and international conferences, disseminating valuable insights and learnings. Her community engagement efforts include conducting training programs for ANMs and CHOs on Anemia Mukt Bharat and Adolescent Health, empowering healthcare workers to drive positive change. She has also completed her District Residency Program at SEARCH, Gadchiroli, a renowned institute dedicated to improving healthcare in rural areas, where she worked tirelessly for the upliftment of tribal health in the backward district of Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, making a tangible impact on the lives of marginalized communities.
Publications
| S. No. | Publication Details | Journal / Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nagraj S, Gandhi PS, Saxena D, Sharma R, Saha A, Sharma R. Comparison between Three Insertion Techniques for Supraglottic Airway Device I-Gel Placement: Standard, Rotation and Reverse in Terms of Insertion Characteristics & Success Rate. International Journal of Toxicological and Pharmacological Research. 2023; 13(4); 250-256; Available from: https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.11218393 | Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes., 2023 |
| 2 | Aggarwal HK, Jain D, Agarwal A, Dahiya S, Misra P, Saha A. Comparison of outcomes of different modalities of renal replacement therapy in patients of acute kidney injury: a single centre prospective observational study. Romanian Journal of Internal Medicine. 2023;62(2):138–49. doi:10.2478/rjim | BMC Med Educ., 2023 |
| 3 | Ranjan R, Rajput M, Sachdeva A, Saha A, Jyotsana, Yadav K. Prevalence of diabetes distress and cross-cultural reliability of DDS-17 scale in rural Haryana. J Family Med Prim Care. 2023; Sep 30;12(9):2064–69. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_496_23 | , 2023 |
| 4 | Anvesha, Vashisht BM, Saha A, Jyotsana, Pratibha. Hand washing – its awareness and practices among school children and facilities available in rural government schools of District Rohtak, Haryana. Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society. 2023;43(1):41–6. | , 2023 |
| 5 | Nagraj S, Gandhi P S, Saxena D, Sharma R, Saha A, Sharma R. Comparison between three Insertion Techniques for Supraglottic Airway Device I-Gel Placement: Standard, Rotation and Reverse in Terms of Insertion Characteristics & Success Rate. International Journal of Toxicological and Pharmacological Research 2023;13(4):250-6 | , 2023 |
| 6 | Anvesha, Vashisht BM, Saha A, Jyotsana, Pratibha. Hand Washing – its Awareness and Practices Among School Children and Facilities Available in Rural Government Schools of District Rohtak, Haryana. Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society. 2023; Vol. 43 (1):41–6. doi:10.58665/NJISS | , 2023 |
| 7 | Ranjan R, Rajput M, Sachdeva A, Saha A, Jyotsana, Yadav K. Prevalence of diabetes distress and cross-cultural reliability of DDS-17 scale in rural Haryana. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care. 2023;12(9):2064–9. | , 2023 |
| 8 | Saha, A., Kumar, A., Jain, A., Pratibha, & Ranjan, R. (2024). Cross-cultural reliability of Van Rie TB perceived Stigma Scale among TB survivors in North India. The Indian journal of tuberculosis, 71 Suppl 2, S221–S224. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijtb.2024.08.009 | , 2024 |
| 9 | Kumar N, Kumar M, Vinay, Saha A, Rathee M, Jyotsana, et al. Prevalence and correlates of cognitive impairment among an urban geriatric population of Haryana. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care [Internet]. 2024 Jun [cited 2024 Sep 28];(6):2221–6. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_497_23 | , 2024 |
| 10 | Goel R, Gaidole R, Bandgar A, Saha A, Banerjee JK. An Observational Study on Implication of Postoperative Visceral Edema, Assessed by CT Scan, on Complications Following Bowel Resection and Anastomosis, in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Maharashtra, India. Journal of Society of Surgeons of Nepal [Internet]. 2024 Nov 8 [cited 2025 Feb 4];(1):1–5. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jssn.v27i1.71272 | , 2024 |
| 12 | Vashisht BM, Saha A, Pratibha, Jyotsana, Kumar A. Anthropometric, Bioelectric, and Visceral Fat Indices to Predict Hypertension in Rural Rohtak, Haryana. Indian Journal of Community Medicine [Internet]. 2025 Jan 30 [cited 2025 Feb 4]; Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_270_23 | , 2025 |
Ongoing Projects – Department of Community Medicine
Funded Projects
| Sl. No. | Project Title | Faculty Involved | Funding Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | National Mental Health Survey Phase-II for all 3 districts of Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
NIMHANS |
| 2 | Acceleration of efforts for mitigation of persistent Undernutrition and Anaemia among under-five children in North and Middle Andamans |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
ICMR |
| 3 | Awareness and Impact of Health Education on Breast Cancer and Self-Breast Examination |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
ICMR |
| 4 | Effectiveness of Nutritional Education Intervention for improving NCD profile among residents of South Andaman |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Aanchal Anand, Dr. Gayathri P S |
ICMR |
| 5 | Stigma and Discrimination among PLHIV and Key Populations in Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand |
NACO |
| 6 | Social Determinants of Perception and Stigma related to Tuberculosis among the Residents of selected high incidence areas of South Andaman – A Mixed Methods Study |
PI: Dr. Amrita Burma Co-PI: Dr. Mukesh Tripathi, Dr. Mitul Saha |
ICMR |
| 7 | Suicide Risk and Associated Mental Health Factors among College Students in Andaman & Nicobar Islands – A Qualitative Study |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 8 | Lived Experiences of Tuberculosis Patients and Mental Health Implications for Early Case Identification and Treatment Adherence in Island Settings: A Qualitative Study in Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 9 | Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients’ Lived Experiences and Mental Health–Related Treatment Adherence Challenges in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A Qualitative Study |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 10 | Access to Mental Health Care in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Pathways to Care, Delays, and Missed Opportunities — A Qualitative Study |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 11 | Local Concepts of Mental Health, Help-Seeking Behaviour and Access to Mental Health Care among Indigenous Tribal Communities in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A Qualitative Study |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 12 | Health Seeking Behavior of Prison Inmates in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A Qualitative Study |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 13 | Substance Use, Mental Distress and Access to Care among Indigenous Tribal Communities in Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 14 | Mental Health, Loneliness and Dignity among Institutionalized Elderly in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Lived Experiences and Caregiver Perspectives |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 15 | Post-COVID Mental Health among the Nicobarese in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A Qualitative Study on Long-Term Anxiety, Sleep Problems and Help-Seeking Pathways |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 16 | Mental Health Experiences and Care-Seeking Behaviours among LGBTQIA+ Communities in Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S Co-PI: Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Funded |
| 17 | Reconstruction of the population genetic histories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand | Funded |
| 18 | Gut microbiome composition across lifestyle gradients in tribal communities of Andaman and Nicobar | Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand | Funded |
| 19 | Social structure and social networks of hunter-gatherer groups from Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Aanchal Anand | Funded |
Non-Funded Projects
| Sl. No. | Project Title | Faculty Involved | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Occupational Health hazards among Marine Dockyard Workers in Andaman & Nicobar Islands | PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S | Non-funded |
| 2 | Community Insights Into Antibiotic Use – Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Among Residents of South Andaman |
PI: Dr. Amrita Burma Co-PI: Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 3 | A facility-based study to assess etiological risk factors of chronic kidney disease in patients admitted for Dialysis in South Andaman |
PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Mitul Saha, Dr. Bhavaniprasad S M |
Non-funded |
| 4 | A Qualitative Study on Perspective of Mothers on Exclusive Breast Feeding in First 6 Months |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Aanchal Anand, Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 5 | Prescription audit to assess the pattern and errors at tertiary care centre of Andaman and Nicobar Islands | PI: Dr. Amrita Burma | Non-funded |
| 6 | Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Individuals Attending Health Centres in South Andaman: A Cross-Sectional Study |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Aanchal Anand, Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 7 | Maternal Knowledge and Practices for Childhood Diarrhoea Management in a culturally diverse and Indigenous Mini-India Population of Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Mitul Saha, Dr. Bhavaniprasad S M |
Non-funded |
| 8 | Impact of training on prescription writing skills among doctors in Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Co-I: Dr. Amrita Burma | Non-funded |
| 9 | A Cross-Sectional Study on BMI and lifestyle among School Children in Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain |
Non-funded |
| 10 | A Facility-Based Study on Treatment Adherence and Lifestyle Behaviours among Patients with Hypertension and Diabetes in South Andaman |
PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Samar Hossain, Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 11 | Comparative Analysis of Nomophobia and Social Media Addiction in Medical and Non-Medical Undergraduate students: A Cross-Sectional Study in Sri Vijaya Puram |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Ajay Raj S, Dr. Aanchal Anand, Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 12 | Social Determinants of Perception and Stigma Related to Tuberculosis Among the Residents of Selected Areas of South Andaman |
PI: Dr. Amrita Burma Co-PI: Dr. Gayathri P S |
Non-funded |
| 13 | Long-term psychological impact of the Tsunami and resilience factors among general population of Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A Quantitative Study |
PI: Dr. Samar Hossain Co-PI: Dr. Aanchal Anand |
Non-funded |
| 14 | Understanding Hand Hygiene Behaviour – A community based assessment in field practice area of medical college | PI: Dr. Amrita Burma | Non-funded |
Programs Offered
Community Medicine teaching adopts a multifaceted approach to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of public health. The curriculum includes lectures, small group discussions, demonstrations, and clinico-social case work-ups that integrate clinical and social perspectives.
Community visits and visits to institutions of public health importance provide experiential learning opportunities, allowing students to gain practical insights into health systems and community-based healthcare delivery.
In addition to undergraduate medical education, the department also functions as a Programme Study Centre under the IGNOU Regional Centre, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It currently offers the Bridge Programme Certificate in Community Health for Nurses and is actively working towards introducing additional academic programmes
Community Medicine Department Gallery
