With BOSM ’26 right around the corner, Akshaj, the coordinator of the Safety and Medical Advisory Council (SMAC), sat down with the BOSM English Press to discuss their functioning for the fest.
He elucidated that SMAC are the first responders to any injury during the fest. They are responsible for ensuring timely responses to all medical issues during campus events by coordinating with trained paramedics, maintaining medical inventory, and managing emergency situations. Compared to other fests, he explained how BOSM required more attention, inventory, and workforce as they had to deal with more serious issues.
In BOSM, the council had been preparing to deal with the worst, with past cases of MCL tears and muscle injuries, where a swift response was necessary.
Regarding preparations for the fest, Akshaj revealed they arranged for paramedics from various hospitals to provide the best possible attention to the injured students. SMAC members received basic training from the paramedics and would present alongside the paramedics when someone’s wounds were being attended to. According to him, another major responsibility of theirs is managing the medical inventory, which they obtain from the Chief Warden, the CMO (Chief Medical Officer), and MedC. They procured it a couple of days before Day Zero so everything could be prepared.
During the fest, he emphasised the importance of all members being available 24/7, so that the GBM could contact them at any time in case of an emergency. The contact numbers of the Coordinator and the two joint coordinators (JoCos) would also be displayed on posters placed around the campus. Showing the dedication and commitment of the SMAC workforce, they keep their eyes and ears open throughout the fest, even during the professional shows. Akshaj mentioned that they are always ready to put their responsibilities first and respond whenever needed. In case of serious injuries, an ambulance remains on standby 24/7 to ensure that the injured can be promptly transported to Birla Sarvajanik Hospital. SMAC also works in coordination with various clubs to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with events that have a higher likelihood of injuries. Akshaj added that most members would be present in the vicinity of all sporting events so that they can act at the earliest.
On a parting note, Akshaj expressed hope that the number of injuries during BOSM would be reduced owing to better training and awareness among sports team members. He also wanted the GBM to be aware that the SMAC tent would be set up at Gymg, in front of the basketball court, as well as at SAC, in case anyone needed to approach them for any assistance.