October 3, 2026
On 1st October 2026, Rus Education, in collaboration with the Russian House in New Delhi, organized the Sobraniye 2026 – The Pre-Departure Ceremony for Indian Students preparing to embark on their journey towards MBBS in Russia. Sobraniye marks the step from preparation to departure, and sends students off with confidence, clarity, and the blessings of their families.
The event brought together more than 300 Indian students who are ready to embark on their medical journey in top medical universities in Russia. Students from across India are all set to join Orenburg State Medical University, Perm State Medical University, Mari State University, Pskov State University, and Kalmyk State University, along with several other Russian medical universities, and participated in the ceremony.
Sobraniye 2026 brought together students and families at a significant point in their journey – after completing the admission process and before leaving India to begin university life in Russia. The event provided an opportunity for students to meet their future peers, interact with other families, and celebrate the beginning of a new academic chapter.
The inaugural session was graced by distinguished delegates, including Lt. Gen. Bipin Puri, PVSM, VSM (Retd.), Director of Medical Services (North Zone), Apollo Group of Hospitals; Dr. Sanjeev K. Singh, Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences; Dr. Vanita Mittal, Associate President of Max Institute of Medical Excellence, Max Healthcare; Ms. Elena Barman, Indian Association of Russian Compatriots; Dr. Rakhi Anand Agarwal, Gynaecologist, Ms. Ramaiah Medical College; Shri Puneet Agarwal, Vice Chairman of Indraprastha Engineering College (IPEC); Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja, Group Medical Director, Max Healthcare; and Air Marshal (Dr.) Pawan Kapoor (Retd.), Technical Advisor, Rus Education.
Addressing the students and parents, Air Marshal (Dr.) Pawan Kapoor (Retd.), Technical Advisor, Rus Education, highlighted the significance of the occasion and the educational connection between India and Russia.
“Sobraniye is a special moment for every student and family beginning this journey. Today marks more than just the beginning of their journey to Russia; it is the beginning of their journey towards becoming doctors. We are proud to support these students as they take this important step towards their future.”
Lt. Gen. Bipin Puri, PVSM, VSM (Retd.), Director of Medical Services (North Zone), Apollo Group of Hospitals, shared a message focused on the larger purpose of medical education. He expressed that it was an honour to be present at Sobraniye 2026 and thanked Dr. Pawan Kapoor, Ms. Elena Barman and all the delegates for bringing everyone together.
Addressing the students, he reminded them that their dream of becoming doctors is now moving closer to reality and encouraged them to embrace their new environment in Russia.
“You are not going there just to earn a degree. You are going there to become a doctor. There is a difference.”
He encouraged the students to approach their medical education with discipline and responsibility, understanding that the journey ahead is about much more than completing a degree.
Dr. Sanjeev K. Singh, Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, congratulated the students for choosing the medical profession and reminded them that medicine is a demanding journey that requires dedication and hard work. He also acknowledged the role of parents in supporting their children as they take this important step.
“Thank you for choosing this profession. Becoming a doctor is not an easy journey. It requires hard work, dedication, and commitment.”
He encouraged students to approach their medical education seriously from the very beginning, building a strong foundation through subjects such as Anatomy and Physiology and remaining consistent throughout their academic journey.
Ms. Elena Barman, Indian Association of Russian Compatriots, expressed her gratitude to Rus Education and encouraged the students to make the most of their time in Russia. She particularly emphasized the value of learning the Russian language, even when their medical programme is taught in English.
“Even though your course is in English, I encourage you to learn Russian. It will be very beneficial for you in your everyday life and during your interactions in Russia.”
She also encouraged students to explore the country, experience its culture and make the most of their time beyond the university campus.
“When you go to Russia, please explore. You will experience many new things, and I believe you will come to like and love the country.”
She further reassured the students that Rus Education would continue to support them and assist them whenever they face challenges during their journey.
The delegates also encouraged students to approach their medical education with dedication, discipline, and responsibility as they prepare to adapt to a new academic and cultural environment.
For many students, Sobraniye 2026 was an opportunity to meet fellow aspirants who will soon become their classmates and friends. The gathering created a sense of community among students even before their arrival in Russia.
For parents, the ceremony was an equally significant moment. After months of admission procedures, documentation, and preparation, seeing their children prepare to leave for medical university marked an important transition. The event gave families an opportunity to share their experiences and connect with others beginning a similar journey.
Beyond celebrating the departure of the 2026-27 batch, Sobraniye 2026 also reflected the broader educational relationship between India and Russia. Indian students pursuing higher education in Russian universities form an important part of the academic and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
For us, the event represents another step in its continued engagement with students and families throughout the international education journey, from university selection and admission guidance to pre-departure preparation and student support.
With the conclusion of Sobraniye 2026 – The Pre-Departure Ceremony, the students are now preparing for the next stage of their journey – arriving in Russia, joining their respective universities, and beginning their medical education.
While many students have completed their admissions, MBBS admissions for the 2026-27 intake are still open. Students who are still exploring MBBS in Russia can connect with us for information on university options, eligibility, fees, admission procedures, and pre-departure preparation.
For the 300+ students who gathered at Russian House, New Delhi, Sobraniye 2026 – The Pre-Departure Ceremony was more than a formal farewell. It marked the moment when months of preparation gave way to a new beginning – the journey towards becoming future doctors.