Catholic Health Association of Karnataka Holds 33rd Annual General Body Meeting in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, September 8, 2026: The Catholic Health Association of Karnataka (CHAKA) held its 33rd Annual General Body Meeting at St. Martha’s Hospital, Bengaluru, bringing together representatives of Catholic healthcare institutions from across Karnataka to deliberate on the future of elderly and palliative care.

Held under the theme, “Shaping the Future of Elderly Care: A Shared Mission, A Continuing Journey,” the meeting focused on the healthcare needs of the growing elderly population, geriatric and palliative care, quality assessment, technology and collaboration among Catholic healthcare institutions.

The programme opened with prayer and an inaugural session addressed by Sr. Dr. Helen Mary, Director General of the Catholic Health Association of India (CHAI). Sr. Deepa, Superior of St. Martha’s Hospital, and Fr. Thomas Pariyarath, Director of the hospital, also addressed the gathering.

During the inaugural session, Sr. Mercy Abraham, former President of CHAKA, was honoured for her service and contribution to the association.

The main thematic session was led by Dr. Pretesh Kiran of St. John’s Geriatric Centre, Bengaluru. He outlined the challenges arising from an ageing population and presented models and best practices in geriatric care, emphasising holistic and person-centred approaches to elderly healthcare.

A session was also held on the Comprehensive Geriatric Palliative Care Initiative announced by the Government of Karnataka. The initiative is proposed to be implemented through the Karnataka Christian Community Development Corporation Limited (KCCDC).

Prof. S. Japhet, Chairperson of KCCDC, led the presentation along with Dr Stanley Macaden, former Director of Bangalore Baptist Hospital and a palliative care consultant, and Anthony Maria Emmanuel M., Managing Director of KCCDC.

Fr. Santhosh Dais, Secretary of the Health Commission of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, and Mr Vipin presented the ComCare Assessment and discussed the way forward. They stressed the importance of evaluating healthcare practices, identifying gaps and strengthening quality and accountability across institutions.

Mr John Santhosh highlighted the growing role of technology in healthcare, particularly in improving patient care, communication, documentation, coordination and institutional efficiency.

CHAKA President Fr. Siby Kaitharan presented the association’s activities, achievements, priorities and future plans. He underlined the importance of networking and collaboration among member institutions to respond more effectively to emerging healthcare challenges.

The business session included the election of the CHAKA Board for the next three years. Fr. Siby Kaitharan was re-elected President, while Sr. Lucy John was elected Vice President, Fr. Peter Asheervadappa Secretary and Sr. Lourdumary M Treasurer.

Sr. Sobia Mary, Sr. Leena Pais and Sr. Mary Jaya were elected as members of the board.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to compassionate, dignified and person-centred healthcare, with particular attention to elderly people, the sick and vulnerable sections of society.

By Catholic Connect Reporter