Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: BABINA Hospital, a unit of the BABINA Group of Companies, celebrated its 1st Foundation Day with much fervour and reflection at Hotel Imphal by The Classic, North AOC, Imphal on Sunday. The event commemorated a year of growth, service, and pioneering medical achievements since the hospital’s launch in August 2024.
The event was graced by Dr Chambo Gonmei, Director of Health Services, Manipur, as Chief Guest. Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of the BABINA Group, presided over the function, while Dr. Shyamkumar Laishram, Medical Superintendent of BABINA Hospital, served as the Guest of Honour.
The celebration began with a powerful opening video presentation titled “Milestones & Achievements of BABINA Hospital – Year One”, showcasing key accomplishments such as the successful launch of dialysis services, a renal transplant surgery conducted on August 2, the first laparoscopic procedures performed, and the participation of over 3000 individuals in free health camps.
Delivering the presidential speech, Dr. Dhabali expressed satisfaction that the hospital has successfully completed its first year without any untoward incidents, crediting the smooth functioning to the dedicated efforts of all staff, from grassroots workers to top-level officials. He extended his gratitude to the BABINA team and other collaborating organisations for their unwavering support.
Sharing the inspiration behind setting up the hospital, Dr. Dhabali recalled how his experience with BABINA Diagnostics led him to realise the need for a comprehensive healthcare facility in the state. “Many patients, especially cancer patients, were forced to seek treatment outside Manipur, facing immense financial and emotional difficulties,” he said.
To address this gap, BABINA Cancer Hospital was established in collaboration with the American Oncology Institute (AOI). However, the standalone oncology facility lacked support from other medical specialties, which posed challenges for holistic treatment. “We had to engage specialists from other hospitals for multi-disciplinary care. That’s when the idea of a multi-specialty hospital was born,” he explained.
The vision materialised within 18 months, and BABINA Multi-Specialty Hospital was formally inaugurated on August 4, 2024. Over the past year, the hospital has grown rapidly with the addition of several specialists and advanced equipment, becoming a fully functional multi-specialty facility.
Dr. Dhabali announced that dialysis services have been introduced, with around 90 patients undergoing dialysis daily. Notably, the hospital successfully conducted its first renal transplant on August 2, 2025. The transplant procedure costs around ₹6.5 lakh at BABINA—significantly lower than the ₹20–25 lakh typically charged in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
He urged the State Health Department to be more flexible in granting approvals for organ transplants, while still adhering to legal protocols. “The process must be streamlined—not illegal—but practical, considering the needs of the patients,” he said.Speaking as Chief Guest, Dr. Chambo Gonmei lauded Dr. Dhabali’s humility and leadership, calling BABINA Hospital a standout institution offering high-quality, affordable healthcare. He expressed particular appreciation for the successful renal transplant and welcomed the upcoming launch of a nursing college under the BABINA Group. “Among the many hospitals in the state, BABINA distinguishes itself through excellence, compassion, and public trust,” he said, urging the hospital to continue its people-focused approach and encouraging others to emulate its values of unity and service. Earlier, delivering the keynote address, Dr. Shyamkumar Laishram reflected on the hospital’s extraordinary journey—from its first surgery to landmark achievements such as the world’s first documented surgery for a right-sided adult Bochdalek hernia with liver herniation, Manipur’s first pectus excavatum case with ruptured bullae, and the hospital’s first successful renal transplant. He highlighted the introduction of high-frequency surgical laser technology, empanelment under CMHT and PMJAY for equitable access, emergency care services, and extensive outreach, including 17 free camps and over 1,470 emergency cases. Applauding the dedication of the staff, he urged the team to carry forward their mission with skill, compassion, and patient-first values. The event also featured a staff felicitation ceremony, where outstanding employees were recognised for their dedicated service, along with cultural performances by BABINA Hospital staff that added colour and warmth to the celebration. The Foundation Day concluded with a reaffirmation of BABINA Hospital’s commitment to accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all, as it looks ahead to a future of continued service and innovation.
