The Sister Doctors Forum of India (SDFI) convened its 32nd National Conference and Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM) from February 12 to 14 at XIM University. The event brought together medical professionals from religious congregations across the country to chart an ambitious roadmap for healthcare transformation by 2035.
Theme Focuses on Shared Leadership and Holistic Care
Centred on the theme, “SDFI Vision 2035: Shared Leadership for Healthcare Transformation,” the three-day conference emphasized collaborative leadership, professional excellence, and a renewed commitment to holistic healthcare. In particular, participants focused on strengthening services in underserved and remote regions.
Founded in 1993, SDFI has grown into a vital national network that promotes sisterhood and strengthens healthcare initiatives across eight regions of India. Over the years, the Forum has actively contributed to cancer screening drives, maternal and child welfare programmes, anaemia control campaigns, and emergency relief efforts during natural disasters and public health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spiritual Inauguration Sets Reflective Tone
As reported by catholicconnect.in, the conference opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration. John Barwa, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, praised the dedication of Sister Doctors who serve “at the crossroads of life and death.” He highlighted how they integrate consecrated life with medical vocation, describing it as a demanding yet deeply compassionate calling that transcends professional boundaries.
Church Leaders Highlight Service and Wellbeing
Lumen Monteiro, Chairman of the CBCI Health Commission, described Sister Doctors as “unsung heroes” who bring hope to patients in hospitals and remote communities alike. At the same time, he urged them to safeguard their own wellbeing amid growing professional pressures. He reminded them that their primary vocation as consecrated women must remain rooted in faith and trust in the Lord.
Furthermore, he drew attention to emerging mission challenges, especially the rising mental health concerns within society and among consecrated persons.
Participation from National Catholic Healthcare Leaders
The event also witnessed the presence of prominent leaders in Catholic healthcare. Among them were Jesudoss Rajamanickam, Director of St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, and Mathew Abraham, Director General of the Catholic Health Association of India.
Serving Rural and Tribal India with Commitment
India is home to nearly 1,300 Sister Doctors from 106 congregations. Most of them serve in rural and tribal areas where access to healthcare remains limited. They deliver preventive, curative, promotive, and palliative care, often under challenging and resource-constrained conditions. Through their steadfast dedication, they continue to uphold a mission of holistic healing.
A total of 143 Sister Doctors attended the conference in person, while 53 others participated virtually, thereby demonstrating the Forum’s expanding national reach and unity.
New Leadership Elected at Annual General Body Meeting
During the Annual General Body Meeting, members elected Sr. Dr. Monica D’Souza SSpS as Secretary and Sr. Dr. Martina SJC as Treasurer. They succeeded Sr. Dr. Ashreena Miranda MSA and Sr. Dr. Helen Mary SAB, who completed their respective terms of office.
Vision 2035: A Transformative Blueprint
As the conference concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to shared leadership and innovative healthcare strategies. They positioned Vision 2035 as a transformative blueprint aimed at strengthening faith-based medical service in India and ensuring accessible, compassionate care for vulnerable communities nationwide.