Dr. Harshad R. Shah is a renowned and senior-most radiologist of Gujarat, widely respected for his lifelong dedication to the field of radiology and medical education. He is the Founder President and Secretary of the IRIA Gujarat State Chapter and has been serving the radiology community for over 50 years. He holds an MD and Diploma in Radiology and is a Fellow of the Indian College of Radiology (FICR). Dr. Shah has served as the Former Head of the Department of Radiology at B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad, where he played a pivotal role in academic leadership and training.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Shah has guided more than 300 radiology residents and has served as an examiner for over 60 universities, continuing to mentor residents even today. He was instrumental in establishing the IRIA Gujarat State Chapter in 1970 and went on to become the first IRIA President from Gujarat in 1995. In addition to his contributions to radiology, he has held prestigious positions such as Chancellor at SVDU and SMS Hospital and Chairman of the Indian Red Cross Society. In recognition of his exceptional service, he has received more than 100 awards from esteemed organizations including IMA, IRIA, and the Indian Red Cross Society.

Dr. Hemant Patel (18/09/1970 – 07/07/2025) was a beloved and highly respected member of the radiology community, remembered for his unwavering dedication to advancing academic radiology, his strong commitment to education and innovation, and his role as a remarkable visionary leader. He served as a mentor and a vital bridge between the IRIA Gujarat State Chapter and international radiology organizations, working tirelessly for the global upliftment of the radiology fraternity.

Dr. Patel held several prestigious leadership positions, including AOSR Honorary Secretary (2025–2027), AOSR Honorary Treasurer (2022), Chair of the AOSR Education Committee (2023–2025), and AOSR Council Member (2021). He was also the IRIA Past President in 2019 and successfully organized the IRIA National Conference in Ahmedabad. As IRIA International Liaison Officer, he played a key role in strengthening international collaborations and, on 25th June 2025, delivered the welcome address at AsiaSafe’s MRI Safety Call for Action Series – Part 3 webinar.

A pioneer of the Sonosummit outreach program of IRIA and YUVA IRIA, Dr. Patel also inspired the initiation of the Shakti Summit. His visionary leadership, mentorship, and lasting contributions to radiology will always be remembered with deep respect, gratitude, and admiration.