Pioneer of HIV care, Padma Shri Prof Dr Alaka Deshpande no more

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Prof Deshpande was the former Professor and Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Sir J J Hospital. In 1990, Prof Deshpande started the first HIV Outpatient Department (OPD) at JJ Hospital. She established and headed the Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) section from 2003-04 till 2011. She was noted to have not taken any salary for this tenure from the hospital. 

In recognition of her outstanding contribution to medicine, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2001, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.

Sharing the news of her passing on X, Dr Shashank Joshi, Past Dean of the Indian College of Physicians, said, "Very sad news. My teacher, Padma Shri awardee Prof Alaka Deshpande, is no more. She left us after a brief illness."

Several other doctors also expressed their condolences in response to his post. A doctor said, "Respect and Condolences", whereas another doctor felt sorry for her sudden passing. 

Her passing marks a huge loss to the medical community, especially to those working in HIV care and internal medicine. Doctors and former students remembered her as a dedicated teacher and compassionate doctor who looked after the patients in need.  

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