Media Release
Udupi, Jun 24: In a significant step toward advancing specialized pediatric healthcare services, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, and the department of pediatric oncology, Kasturba Medical College and Kasturba Hospital, Manipal inaugurated the Division of Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, Hematology and Immunology (BHIM) and observed the World Sickle Cell Awareness Day. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Sharada Madhav Pai Memorial OPD Block, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.
The newly established division provides comprehensive care for children with complex hematological, immunological, and oncological disorders requiring advanced therapies such as bone marrow transplantation and cellular therapy. The initiative reflects KMC, Manipal and Kasturba Hospital’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art treatment facilities and improving outcomes for children suffering from life-threatening blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and cancers.
The inauguration was graced by Dr Sharath K Rao, vice chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, who was the chief guest. In his address, Dr Rao highlighted the importance of developing highly specialized centers of excellence that combine clinical expertise, research, and education to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region and the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Vasudeva Bhat K, professor and head, department of pediatric oncology, welcomed the dignitaries of the event and mentioned that the division aims to offer multidisciplinary, patient-centred care supported by philanthropic support and cutting-edge technology under a highly trained healthcare professional team.
Dr Archana M V, in-charge of the Division and associate professor, department of pediatric oncology, outlined the vision of the new unit, emphasizing its role in providing comprehensive transplant services, cellular therapies, and long-term follow-up care. She also highlighted the significance of launching the division in conjunction with World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to addressing inherited blood disorders through awareness, early diagnosis, and advanced treatment options.
The event was attended by senior leadership of MAHE and Kasturba Hospital, including Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, teaching hospitals, MAHE and Dr Anil K Bhat, dean, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal.
The establishment of the BHIM Division marks a major milestone in pediatric healthcare at Kasturba Hospital and is expected to serve as a regional referral center for advanced pediatric hematology, immunology, bone marrow transplantation, and cellular therapy services, benefiting children and families across Karnataka and beyond. Dr Emine Rahiman, associate professor in the department gave the vote of thanks while Dr Swathi P M, assistant professor in the department was the master of the ceremony.