Sister Doctors Forum of India Charts Vision 2035 at 32nd National Conference in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, February 13, 2026: 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, Bhubaneswar, bringing together medical professionals from religious congregations across the country to outline an ambitious roadmap for healthcare transformation by 2035.

Centred on the theme, “SDFI Vision 2035: Shared Leadership for Healthcare Transformation,” the three-day gathering emphasised collaborative leadership, professional excellence, and renewed commitment to holistic healthcare, particularly in underserved regions.

Founded in 1993, SDFI has emerged as a vital network promoting sisterhood and strengthening healthcare initiatives across eight regions of India. The Forum has contributed significantly 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.

The conference opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration during which Archbishop John Barwa SVD of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar lauded the dedication of Sister Doctors serving “at the crossroads of life and death.” He described their integration of consecrated life and medical vocation as a demanding dual calling that transcends professional boundaries and becomes a profound witness of compassion.

Bishop Lumen Monteiro, Chairman of the CBCI Health Commission, referred to Sister Doctors as “unsung heroes” whose presence offers hope to the suffering in hospitals and remote communities alike. He cautioned participants to safeguard their own wellbeing amid professional pressures, stressing that their primary vocation as consecrated women must remain anchored in trust in the Lord. Highlighting emerging mission challenges, he also drew attention to the growing mental health concerns within society and among consecrated persons.

The event was attended by leading figures in Catholic healthcare, including Fr. Jesudoss Rajamanickam, Director of St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, and Dr. Fr. Mathew Abraham, CSsR, Director General of the Catholic Health Association of India.

India is home to nearly 1,300 Sister Doctors from 106 congregations, most of whom serve in rural and tribal areas where access to healthcare remains limited. Their work spans preventive, curative, promotive, and palliative care, often under challenging and resource-constrained conditions, reflecting a steadfast commitment to holistic healing.

A total of 143 Sister Doctors attended the conference in person, while 53 others participated virtually, underscoring the Forum’s expanding national reach and solidarity.

During the Annual General Body Meeting, Sr. Dr. Monica D’Souza SSpS and Sr. Dr. Martina SJC were elected Secretary and Treasurer respectively. They succeed Sr. Dr. Ashreena Miranda MSA and Sr. Dr. Helen Mary SAB, who completed their terms of office.

As deliberations concluded, participants reaffirmed their resolve to pursue shared leadership and innovative strategies in healthcare delivery, positioning Vision 2035 as a transformative blueprint for faith-based medical service in India.

Sister Doctors Forum of India Charts Vision 2035 at 32nd National Conference in Bhubaneswar

Latest News