Abstract
As we bring to you the December 2025 issue of the Indian Journal of Rheumatology (IJR), it marks the completion of my tenure as Editor-in-Chief. Looking back over the past three years, I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this journal and the rheumatology community in India. It has been a period of growth, transition and renewed purpose—a journey that strengthened my conviction in the collective strength of our community.
When I assumed this role in January 2023, I was mindful of the strong foundation laid by my predecessors. Building on that, our focus remained on improving the visibility, accessibility, and scientific quality of IJR. I am pleased to share that the journal continues to progress steadily, with an impact factor of 0.5 and a growing readership both within and beyond India.
A major milestone during this period has been the transition of the journal to Sage Publications and the adoption of the Manuscript Central submission and review platform. This shift represents an important step in modernising our editorial processes, ensuring a smoother experience for authors, reviewers and editors alike, and aligning IJR with international best practices.
We have continued to publish four regular issues and IRACON abstracts supplements each year, maintaining the journal’s platinum open-access model—a rare and valued feature that allows unrestricted access for readers and authors. This has been possible only through the generous and consistent support of the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA), whose vision for open and ethical dissemination of scientific knowledge remains exemplary.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all our Associate and Assistant Editors, reviewers, and the editorial office staff, who have worked with extraordinary commitment and professionalism. Much of the journal’s progress has been the result of their sustained effort, often beyond regular working hours, and their genuine belief in the value of this work.
As I step down, it gives me great pleasure to welcome Dr Durga Prasanna Misra, Additional Professor, Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, as the next Editor-in-Chief from January 2026. A distinguished clinician-scientist and academician, Dr Misra brings with him a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence. I am confident that under his leadership, IJR will continue to strengthen its scientific impact and international reach.
Finally, I appeal once again to all members of the IRA and our colleagues in the field to continue supporting the journal by submitting original research and reviews, and by volunteering as reviewers. The success of IJR depends on the collective participation of our community.
It has been a privilege and an honour to serve as Editor-in-Chief. I conclude this journey with immense gratitude to all who have contributed—authors, reviewers, readers, and the IRA leadership—for their trust, support, and friendship. The IJR will always remain close to my heart, and I look forward to seeing it reach greater heights in the years ahead.