IAPEN India Mangaluru Chapter
President
Dr. Vasudeva Bhat
He is associated with Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, where he serves as Associate Professor and In-charge Head of the Division of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology.
He also holds the role of Deputy Coordinator at the Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Care Centre. Educational and professional background.
His qualifications include M.B.B.S., M.D. (Pediatrics), and D.M. (Pediatric Oncology) Before joining KMC Manipal, he held academic posts in Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. His research interests center on pediatric solid tumors, pediatric brain tumors, as well as supportive care in childhood cancers and palliative care.
Vice-President
Dr. Jayashree Satish Rao
MBBS, MD (Pediatrics)
Senior Resident in the Department of Pediatrics, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal; Consultant Pediatrician at Dr. TMA Pai Rotary Hospital, Karkala.
Academic Excellence:
MBBS from Shimoga (RGUHS), MD Pediatrics from Mysore Medical College; University Rank 4 in Physiology and All India Rank 2093 in NEET PG 2020.
Research & Achievements:
3 publications in indexed journals, several conference presentations, and multiple awards including first prize in the State-level Psychiatry Quiz and second prize in a national-level poster presentation at Lady Hardinge Medical College.
Community & Creative Engagement:
Completed NPTEL certification in Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (91%); facilitator for neonatal care workshops
Secretary
Dr.Archana Prabhat
Current Position: Coordinator and Head of the Department of PG Studies in Food Science & Nutrition at Alva’s College, Moodbidri.
Academic and Professional Background:
She completed her PG and PhD at the University of Mysore
She is credited with pioneering the undergraduate . and post graduate programmes in Food Science & Nutrition at Mangalore University.
She has more than two decades of teaching and research supervision experience and has published 30 papers
She has served as Chairperson and Member of the BOS and BOE in Mangalore University and in autonomous/deemed institutions.
Actively involved in extension education, Conducted several Nutrition Awareness Programs and Diet Camps at various Anganwadi centres, Health Institutions, and Ladies’ Clubs.
Recognitions & Awards:
Best Women Faculty Award from Nature Science Foundation, Coimbatore (2019)
IAPEN India- National level - Excellence in Nutrition Research Award (2021)
State award – Excellence in Nutrition Academics. (2023)
Treasurer
Mrs. Ashitha
MD
She currently serves as the Head of the Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics at Alva’s College, Moodbidri
She holds an M.Sc. in Food Science and Nutrition from the University of Mysore.
An experienced faculty member, she is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students in the field of food, nutrition, and dietetics.
She is also a member of the Board of Studies of autonomous colleges and serves on the Board of Examiners for Mangalore University and various deemed-to-be universities.
She plays an integral role in academic and research activities within the department and contributes significantly to nutrition awareness and community health programs.
Executive Committee Member
Mr. Joel P. Joseph
He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor (Stage I) in the Department of Food Science & Nutrition at St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru.
He previously held the position of Head of the Department of Food Science at Yenepoya Institute (prior to 2024) and has professional experience as a dietitian in both clinical and industrial settings, including roles at La Belle Body Care and British Biologicals.
His research interests include dietary fibre, bioactive compounds, and food safety, with specific work related to the presence of formaldehyde in fish. He is presently pursuing his Ph.D. at St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University).
Executive Committee Member
Mr. Ajith K
Assistant Professor cum Dietitian at Yenepoya Naturopathy & Yogic Science College & Hospital, under Yenepoya (Deemed to be University).
Holds a Master’s in Food Science & Nutrition, a Fellowship in Clinical Nutrition, and is pursuing a Ph.D. at Bharathiar University on dietary intervention and lifestyle modification for PCOS.
Specializes in therapeutic diets, clinical nutrition, public health nutrition, and food safety; previously served as HOD at SDM College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences.
Life Member of IDA and NSI, Registered Dietitian, Certified Food Safety Supervisor, and has 9 research publications listed in the Yenepoya University IRINS profile.
Executive Committee Member
Ms. Karthika Devi S
Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science & Nutrition at Alva’s College, Moodubidri.
NET qualified, with a strong academic background and interest in nutrition research and education
Co-authored the book Millets, The Miracle Grain (with Archana Prabath), published by SelfyPage Developers Pvt. Ltd., Chikkamagaluru (ISBN: 978‑93‑5747‑997‑4).
Co-authored a research paper titled “Integrating Nendra Banana Blossoms into Chocolate: A Study on Nutritional Enhancement and Bioactive Compounds”, published in the Journal of Nutrition Research, Volume 12, Issue 2 (December 2024).
Actively engaged in teaching, research, and promoting the value of functional foods and traditional ingredients in modern diets.
Executive Committee Member
Vidya Rajesh
Completed M.Sc. in Dietetics and Applied Nutrition from Manipal University and pursuing Ph.D. in Nutrition and Gut Microbiome from MAHE.
Currently a Grade 2 Clinical Dietician at TMA Pai Rotary Hospital, Karkala, with 7 years of experience in medical nutrition therapy.
Published 5 research articles and won awards for presentations on infant nutrition, COVID-19, and probiotic research.
Actively involved in nutrition awareness programs, health talks, and radio discussions on diet and health.
Life member of the Indian Dietetic Association.
Executive Committee Member
Mrs.Sandis Joseph
Chief Dietitian and Diabetic Educator at Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangalore.
Providing disease specific nutrition care and support to patients, managing complications, and promoting optimal health outcomes. Developing nutrition plans to manage side effects, optimize recovery and enhance quality of life.
Creating personalized diet plans for patients with various health conditions, including diabetic, kidney disease , ICU and cancer patients.
Educating patients and their families on nutrition, Insulin injection technique and lifestyle modifications to manage their conditions effectively.
Conduct classes for BSc Nursing and BSc Renal Dialysis students, focusing on therapeutic nutrition and renal nutrition,
Organized and delivered guest lectures and seminars in college, and various organization to provide awareness about nutrition.
Lifetime member of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA).
Please contact us on email id : iapenmangalore@gmail.com
Chapter Activities
- Name & Place of the Activity:
Continuous Nutrition Education (CNE) Program – IAPEN India, Mangaluru Chapter, IMA Hall, Hampankatta, Mangalore - Date of the Event:
27th March 2026 - Brief Description:
IAPEN India – Mangaluru Chapter organized a Continuous Nutrition Education (CNE) program at IMA Hall, Hampankatta, Mangalore. The program featured guest talk sessions and an insightful panel discussion focusing on current trends and practices in nutrition and healthcare. The session provided a platform for knowledge sharing, professional interaction, and updating participants on recent advancements in the field. The event was well-attended and appreciated by healthcare professionals and students. - Members/Participants Involved:
Dr. Vijay Sundarsingh (Panelist), Dr. Archana Bhat (Panelist), Ms. Jane Mariya (Panelist), Dr. Archana Prabhat (Panelist), Healthcare professionals, and students.
- On the occasion of International Women’s Day, IAPEN India – Mangaluru Chapter organized a webinar in collaboration with Alva’s College (Autonomous), Moodbidri, to promote awareness on women’s health and nutrition. The session titled “Women’s Health & PCOS: A Practitioner’s Journey” was delivered by Ms. Annapurna Bhatnagar, Clinical Nutritionist and Secretary, IAPEN Bhopal Chapter. The talk focused on the causes, symptoms, and increasing prevalence of PCOS, emphasizing the role of balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle practices in managing hormonal health. The session was interactive and well-received, providing practical insights for prevention and management. The webinar benefited UG and PG students along with faculty members.
- Members/Participants Involved:
Ms. Annapurna Bhatnagar (Resource Person), Faculty members, UG FND and PG FSN students.
- On the occasion of International Women’s Day, IAPEN India – Mangaluru Chapter organized a webinar in collaboration with Alva’s College (Autonomous), Moodbidri, to promote awareness on women’s health and nutrition. The session titled “Women’s Health & PCOS: A Practitioner’s Journey” was delivered by Ms. Annapurna Bhatnagar, Clinical Nutritionist and Secretary, IAPEN Bhopal Chapter. The talk focused on the causes, symptoms, and increasing prevalence of PCOS, emphasizing the role of balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle practices in managing hormonal health. The session was interactive and well-received, providing practical insights for prevention and management. The webinar benefited UG and PG students along with faculty members.
- Members/Participants Involved:
Ms. Annapurna Bhatnagar (Resource Person), Faculty members, UG FND and PG FSN students.
World Dietetics Day 2026- Webinar
Date: 12th January 2026
Platform : Google meet
Beneficiaries: 25 students and 5 faculty members
Webinar was hosted by the chapter to commemorate World Dietetics Day on the topic “Role of nutrition in cancer care: From diagnosis to survivorship “ by Ms. Daveena Pinto, Clinical Nutritionist & IAPEN member ,Mangalore Institute of Oncology, Mangalore. The main objective of the session is to enhance the clinical knowledge of students and faculty regarding the critical impact of nutritional intervention throughout the cancer journey. The webinar focused on the nutritional assessment of the patient ,management of side-effects through diet to ensure complete recovery and also on long term dietary strategies to improve quality of life, regain strength and potentially reduce the risk of recurrence. Total of 25 students and 5 faculties benefitted from the program.
The program successfully highlighted the indispensable role of dietitians in the multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. The program was conducted in association with the Department of Food Nutrition & Dietetics, Alva’s College (Autonomous), Moodbidri
Name & Place of the Activity:
World Food Day 2025 Celebration – Mount Rosary Charitable Trust, Mangaluru
Date of the Event:
16th October 2025
Brief Description:
The IAPEN Mangaluru Chapter, in collaboration with Alva’s FSN, organized a World Food Day 2025 celebration at Mount Rosary Charitable Trust, Mangaluru. The event aimed to promote nutritional awareness and community well-being among elderly residents. A nutritious Nutri Lunch was served to 135 beneficiaries, followed by an interactive nutrition education session focusing on healthy dietary practices and food sustainability. The program emphasized the importance of balanced nutrition and social responsibility in improving quality of life.
Members/Participants Involved:
Members of IAPEN Mangaluru Chapter and faculty and students from Alva’s FSN actively participated in the event.
Collaboration:
In collaboration with Alva’s FSN.
- The Women Conclave – Nurturer the Nurturer was held at VS Acharya Hall, Alvas College, bringing together over 800 beneficiaries from diverse backgrounds. The conclave served as a powerful platform dedicated to celebrating, educating, and empowering women at every stage of life.
- The event hosted eminent panellists from across the country, representing various fields. Each expert shared unique insights and real-life experiences, creating a rich and interconnected dialogue.
- The discussions provided an integrated, holistic approach to enhancing women’s health—from puberty through reproductive years and into menopause.
- Through knowledge-sharing, interaction, and collaborative learning, the conclave strengthened awareness and inspired women to prioritize their health while also equipping them with practical strategies to thrive as the nurturers of society.
- World Diabetes Day 2025 – Diet Camp
Location: Alva’s Education Foundation – Transport Division
Beneficiaries: 80 Transport Workers
IAPEN India – Mangaluru Chapter in association with The Dept. of PG Studies in Food Science and Nutrition, organized a World Diabetes Day 2025 diet camp for the transport workers of Alva’s Education Foundation.The camp included height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and blood glucose assessments, followed by individual diet counselling . A total of 80 participants benefitted from the initiative.
