Strengthening Connections, Celebrating Progress and Shaping the Future
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM 2026) in Pune on 29 and 30 August 2026. Hosted by the MSSI Pune Chapter, the two-day gathering was held at Hotel Parc Estique, Viman Nagar, Pune, and brought together members from across the MSSI community to reflect on the organisation’s journey, exchange ideas, and chart the way forward.
With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration and strengthening the organisation for the future, AGM 2026 provided an important platform for meaningful discussions and collective decision-making.
The AGM saw representation from the Governing Council, Managing Committee members from the Head Office, eight MSSI Chapters and the National Youth Wing (NYW). While the Bangalore Chapter was unable to participate physically, its presentation was shared with the gathering, ensuring that its experiences and perspectives were also part of the discussions.
Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger MSSI
The sessions, led by Hon. President Mr Hemant Nerurkar, addressed several important areas that will shape MSSI’s future. Key discussions included succession planning for the organisation, helping ensure continuity and effective leadership in the years ahead.
An online session also explored the existing gaps in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act and discussed potential areas for future reforms. The AGM further considered and passed amendments to the Memorandum of Association (MOA), an important step towards strengthening MSSI’s organisational framework.
Alongside these forward-looking discussions, the AGM covered the customary statutory and organisational matters, including the approval of the AGM 2024–25 minutes, finance report, accounts and annual report. The inclusion of the National Youth Wing on the MSSI website was also finalised, further strengthening the visibility and participation of young voices within the organisation.
Learning from Each Other
One of the key highlights of AGM 2026 was the opportunity for Chapters to share their experiences, achievements and learnings.
Representatives discussed best practices, successful projects and initiatives undertaken by all nine Chapters, the NYW and the Head Office. The conversations also provided an open forum to discuss challenges encountered over the past few years and explore ways in which Chapters could learn from and support one another.
The Delhi Chapter was represented by Ms Bipasha Gupta, Hon. Chairperson; Gp. Capt. Prabal Malaker (Retd.), Hon. Secretary; Ms Meenakshi Bhujwala, Hon. Treasurer; and Ms Puja Chadha, EC Member.
The exchange of ideas highlighted the strength of MSSI’s chapter network and the value of coming together as one community. Each Chapter brings its own experiences and strengths, and such gatherings provide an opportunity to transform these individual learnings into collective progress.
An Evening of Music and Celebration
While the AGM was centred on important organisational discussions, the gathering also made space for celebration and camaraderie.
On the evening of 29 August, participants enjoyed a cultural programme titled “Mausiqi-e-Taal – The Rhythms of Bollywood.” The lively musical evening brought cheers, energy and plenty of smiles to the participants, providing a wonderful opportunity to unwind and connect beyond the formal sessions.
A Meaningful AGM, A Shared Way Forward
AGM 2026 was more than a statutory annual gathering. It was an opportunity for the MSSI community to pause, reflect on its achievements, acknowledge the challenges ahead and renew its commitment to building a stronger and more connected organisation.
The Delhi Chapter sincerely thanks the members of the Pune Chapter for hosting a comfortable, systematic and result-oriented AGM. From an accessible venue to a well-planned programme, the arrangements ensured that the two-day gathering was productive, inclusive and memorable for everyone who attended.
As MSSI continues its journey, the conversations and collective spirit of AGM 2026 provide renewed momentum to work together towards a more empowered, informed and supportive community for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis.
