Meerut: Dr Rakesh Krishan Gupta has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to pediatric and preventive dentistry at the Pedodham 2025 National Conference of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry (ISPPD), held in Bhubaneswar.
A celebrated academician and an influential institutional leader, Dr Gupta is recognised across India for his distinguished service to the field and his transformative work in dental education and preventive oral healthcare.
A Driving Force in Dental Education
Dr Gupta currently serves as Principal & Director (Postgraduate Studies) at Kalka Dental College, Meerut, where he has been applauded for his leadership and innovative reforms in dental training and healthcare delivery.
Previously, as Principal and Dean of Indira Gandhi Government Dental College, Jammu, he played a pivotal role in upgrading the institution to postgraduate status. His contributions include:
- Introducing seven recognised MDS specialities
- Establishing an ICMR-registered ethics committee
- Setting up a modern multi-speciality dental centre
- Expanding hospital infrastructure with a new block housing four clinical departments
He also facilitated approvals for major infrastructure projects, including PG/UG hostels, faculty staff quarters, a guest house, an indoor sports complex, and multi-floor parking.
Dr Gupta further shaped dental education as the first Dean of Dental Sciences at the University of Jammu, where he guided the formation of the Faculty of Dental Sciences and the Board of Dental Studies.
Key Role in National Dental Policy
Since joining the Dental Council of India (DCI) in 2017, Dr Gupta has been instrumental in:
- Strengthening ethical oversight
- Developing academic curricula
- Participating in institutional inspections
- Contributing to national-level dental policy and regulation
A Humble Acceptance
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Dr Gupta said the award was a deeply humbling moment and dedicated it to his mentors, students, colleagues, and institutions that supported his journey.
A Lasting Academic Legacy
With over 22 scientific publications, three authoritative reference books, substantial postgraduate mentorship, and regular participation as a speaker and session chair at major national conferences, Dr Gupta has left a significant mark on India’s dental landscape.
Known for his humility, integrity, empathy, and dedication to public service, Dr Gupta’s Lifetime Achievement Award at Pedodham 2025 stands as a national acknowledgement of his decades-long commitment, visionary leadership, and far-reaching impact on dentistry.
