Dr. Varnit Shanker is the Chief of Institute of Child Neurosciences, ICON Foundation and Senior Consultant at DACH, Tertiary Care Pediatric Specialty Hospital. He is a Child Neurologist and Neurodevelopmental Specialist with qualifications from renowned institutes such as Harvard University (USA), Sir Gangaram Hospital (New Delhi) and Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health (London, UK). He is life member of Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Association of Child Neurologist of India (AOCN) and International Child Neurology Association (ICNA).
Dr. Varnit Shanker was the youngest international speaker at the 2019 World Pediatric
Congress in Singapore (Session speaker on Ketogenic Diet in drug resistant epilepsy).
He has been awarded research bursary and grants from International Child Neurology
Association (ICNA).
He presented his Masters Harvard thesis on Gut Brain Axis at the International Child
Neurology Congress (ICNC) at Antalya, Turkey in 2022.
Dr. Varnit is the recipient of Dean's List Academic Achievement Award and was recipient of
prestigious Derek Bok Public Service Prize in Boston.
He has several national and international scientific publications under his belt including book
chapters. He is a regular faculty at National and International conferences in the field of
Pediatrics, Neonatology and Neurology.
Dr. Varnit has been leading a crucial campaign “Disconnect to Reconnect” emphasizing the importance of reducing screen time to foster deeper, more meaningful relationships and interactions in real life.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital devices, this idea encourages individuals, families, and organizations to take a step back from constant connectivity and prioritize face- to-face communication, emotional connection, and mental well-being. Excessive screen time can affect both the quality of parent-child interactions and the development of children. Encouraging children to disconnect from devices can lead to more family bonding, outdoor activities, and creative play, all of which are essential for healthy development. For schools, workplaces or communities, the idea challenges leaders to create environments that prioritize human interaction over digital distraction. This can include setting limits on technology use, promoting mindfulness, and designing activities that encourage personal engagement.
