CHAI Kerala Elects New Leadership for 2026–2029

Wayanad, August 22, 2026: The Catholic Hospital Association of India (CHAI), Kerala Region, elected a new leadership team for 2026–2029 at its 64th Annual General Body Meeting held at Dwaraka Pastoral Centre, Wayanad, with a call for Catholic healthcare institutions to strengthen compassionate, professional and collective service.

Held under the theme “Faithful Stewardship,” the meeting brought together representatives of hospitals across Kerala, along with former office bearers who had contributed to the development of the regional association.

Bishop Alex Vadakumthala, Chairman of the KCBC Health Commission, urged Catholic healthcare providers to “see the signs of the time” and remain committed to delivering healthcare with professionalism, compassion and care.

CHAI Director General Sr. Helen Mary called on member institutions to work together as one family and strengthen their outreach to the poor, sick and vulnerable.

Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Executive Secretary of the CBCI Office for Healthcare, urged Catholic healthcare institutions to become prophetic witnesses in an increasingly challenging healthcare environment. Referring to Christ’s call to give life in abundance, he encouraged healthcare workers to care for those in need while remaining faithful to the teachings and mission of the Church.

CHAI Kerala Region President Fr. Dr. Binu Kunnath commended member institutions for continuing their service to the sick and suffering despite growing challenges in the healthcare sector.

A session on financial sustainability and operational efficiency, titled “More with Less,” was led by Dr. Gopinath Mampalikalam of Aster MIMS, Calicut.

The gathering also honoured former office bearers for their years of service and leadership. Their six- and nine-year terms were recognised for contributing to the strengthening and development of CHAI Kerala Region.

Fr. Biju Payyampallil, CEO and Secretary of Pushpagiri Institutions, Thiruvalla, was elected President for the 2026–2029 term. Fr. Vimal Francis, Director of Lourde Hospital, Ernakulam, was elected Vice President.

Sr. Thejas FCC, Administrator of Dhanya Mission Hospital, Potta, was elected Secretary, while Fr. Anto Antony Perumpallithara, Assistant Executive Director of Sahrudaya Hospital, Alappuzha, was elected Joint Secretary. Fr. Shibu Puthenpurackal CMI, Joint Director of Amala Medical College, Thrissur, was elected Treasurer.

Five zonal coordinators were also elected. Fr. Binu Kunnath will oversee the Trivandrum Zone, Fr. Ullas MM TM the Kottayam Zone, Fr. Claudin Bivera, Director of Don Bosco Hospital, Paravur, the Ernakulam Zone, Fr. Demin, Joint Director of Jubilee Mission Medical College, Thrissur, the Thrissur Zone, and Sr. Josna FDCC, Administrator of St. Martin Hospital, Cherukunnu, the Malabar Zone.

Sr. Lillisa SABS will continue as Secretary of the KCBC Health Commission and Executive Director of CHAI Kerala Region.

Sr. Lillisa congratulated the newly elected office bearers and thanked members and representatives for their continued participation and support. She expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among Catholic healthcare institutions would enable CHAI Kerala Region to expand its service and social commitment.

The meeting also reviewed initiatives undertaken by CHAI Kerala Region to strengthen member institutions and develop collective responses to emerging challenges in the healthcare sector.

By Catholic Connect Reporter