History of IMA Palakkad
The Palakkad District Branch of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), established in November/ December 1951, has been instrumental in advancing medical practice and public health in the region. The branch was officially formed under the inspiring leadership of Dr. T.K. Kesavan Nayar, Dr. A.K. Haridas, Dr. T.N. Venkatachalam, Dr. K.M.N. Nambudiripad, and Dr. R. Padmanabhan. The inaugural meeting took place at the Madhava Raja Club, where Dr. A.R. Menon was elected as the first President, supported by Dr. A.K. Raghavan, Col. G.R. Parasuram, and Dr. Kesavan Nayar. Despite initial challenges, including limited facilities and waning interest, the branch persevered, notably with the arrival of Dr. K. Madhava Menon in 1956, who revitalized the association. On October 1, 1956, the Palakkad Branch was formally integrated into the IMA as part of the Madras State Branch, marking the beginning of a new era.
Throughout the years, the Palakkad Branch has been instrumental in shaping the medical landscape of Kerala. The association gained momentum with a series of successful initiatives, including hosting the IV State Conference in 1961, which coincided with the Centenary Celebrations of the Palakkad Hospital. This event was a turning point, significantly contributing to the growth of the Kerala State Branch.
One of the association’s notable achievements includes the establishment of its own building in the heart of Palakkad. This was made possible through the generosity of the Palakkad Municipality and the Kerala Government. The foundation stone was laid by His Excellency Shri V.V. Giri, then Governor of Kerala, in 1961, and the building was completed and inaugurated in 1965.
Prominent figures such as Dr. G.R. Parasuram, Dr. K. Madhava Menon, Dr. K.S. Venkitachala Iyer, and many others have made significant contributions to the branch’s development. Their dedication laid a strong foundation, enabling the association to thrive and adapt through changing times.
Dr. C.K. Chandrashekaran (fondly called CKC) is the only member from IMA Palakkad to have served as the State President (2006–2007). A trailblazer, he spearheaded initiatives like the Sandesha Yatra, Suvarnasangama Yatra and Saaktheya Yatra, which were instrumental in uniting the medical fraternity across Kerala. He also served as the Chairman of pivotal projects such as IMAGE (Indian Medical Association Goes Eco-friendly) and SSS2 (Social Security Scheme 2). At 84, Dr. Chandrashekaran remains an active member of IMA Palakkad, embodying the branch’s spirit of dedication and service.
In 2006, IMA Palakkad hosted the prestigious two-day IMA State Conference, FORTCON, which marked a significant milestone in the branch’s history. This event not only showcased the organizational excellence of IMA Palakkad but also elevated its status at the state level. FORTCON served as a platform to foster collaboration and exchange of ideas among medical professionals across Kerala, paving the way for IMA Palakkad to emerge as a prominent highlight within the state-level medical community.
The growth and success of IMA Palakkad in recent times can be attributed to the invaluable contributions of its senior Branch Past Presidents including Dr. Ramanan Errat, Dr. Rajagopalan Nair, Dr. Sukumaran Pillai, Dr. C.S. Warrier, Dr. Ramakrishnan N, Dr. T.P. Jayaraman and Dr Sujith JS among others. Dr Rajagopalan also served as the Vice Chairman of IMA State IMAGE facility in 2023-25. Their visionary leadership and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the branch’s progress and initiatives.
One of the notable milestones in the branch’s recent history was the renovation of the IMA Hall in 2015. This ambitious project was undertaken by the Building Committee under the capable leadership of Dr. C.S. Warrier and the then President, Dr. Sukumaran Pillai, marking a significant upgrade in the branch’s infrastructure.
Subsequently, further improvements were made to enhance the facilities. The renovation of the ground floor restrooms was completed under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Arun N.M., then President and Dr. Dileep Kuncheria, Secretary. These efforts reflect the branch’s commitment to providing modern and comfortable facilities for its members and visitors, ensuring that IMA Palakkad continues to set high standards in its operational and professional environment. The dedication and efforts of these senior leaders have left an indelible mark on IMA Palakkad’s history, fostering an enduring legacy of service, progress, and excellence. In 2023, the renovation of the first-floor restroom annexure, which had fallen into a dilapidated state, was initiated under the Presidentship of Dr. Arun N.M. and was successfully completed during the tenure of Dr. Ali M.B. in 2024. Dr. R. Sathyajith, who served as Secretary during this period, played a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless execution of the project. This significant renovation was made possible through a generous donation from the family of the late Dr. Sivadas, a respected paediatrician and senior member of IMA Palakkad, in association with the Palakkad Diabetic Research Forum (PDRF). The initiative also witnessed commendable support from members of the Physician Club of Palakkad, whose efforts in arranging and coordinating resources were notable. This project stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of IMA Palakkad’s members, ensuring the continued enhancement of its facilities for the benefit of all.
In 2024, as a shining testament to its vibrant legacy, IMA Palakkad proudly hosted the prestigious IMA Kerala State Inter-District Cultural and Literary Fest, SAMANWAYA 2024, on May 4th and 5th at the scenic Tripenta Resorts, Palakkad. This groundbreaking event, unparalleled in scale and significance, brought together medical professionals from across Kerala, reflecting the branch’s commitment to fostering unity and celebrating diverse talents within the medical fraternity. A key driving force behind the success of SAMANWAYA 2024 was Dr. R. Sathyajith, the Branch Secretary, who also served as the IMA State Convenor of the Committee to Promote Cultural and Literary Talents during this period. His leadership, combined with the exceptional efforts of the organizing team, ensured the event’s resounding success.
The organizing committee, led by Dr. Sujith J.S. as Chairperson, Dr. Sindhu B. as Vice Chairperson, Dr. Mary Jyothi as Secretary, and Dr. Pravin Das as Organizing Convenor and District Representative of the State Cultural Committee with an amazing team, worked tirelessly to make SAMANWAYA 2024 an unforgettable experience. The team’s stupendous efforts in planning and executing this event set a new benchmark in IMA’s cultural endeavors, solidifying IMA Palakkad’s reputation as a trailblazer in fostering artistic and literary expression within the medical community.
Inaugurated by Dr. Joseph Benaven, State President of IMA Kerala and graced by Palakkad District Collector Dr. Chitra IAS, along with State Secretary Dr. K. Sasidharan and other top dignitaries of the IMA Kerala State Branch, SAMANWAYA 2024 set a new benchmark in IMA’s cultural history.
The event featured over 25 distinct competitions, spanning literature, poetry, music, dance, visual arts, public speaking, drama, and even fashion shows. Held across an expansive venue with one main stage, four side stages, and an open-air lawn for social interactions, the fest witnessed participation from more than 1,500 delegates, representing IMA branches from every corner of Kerala.
A standout feature of the fest was the gala dinner and live DJ performance on the evening of May 4th, which fostered camaraderie and added a celebratory note to the proceedings. This two-day event, concluding on May 5th, exemplified the harmonious blending of cultural and professional identity, encouraging doctors to explore and express their creativity beyond their medical expertise.
SAMANWAYA 2024 not only celebrated artistic expression but also reinforced IMA Palakkad’s commitment to promoting unity, diversity, and intellectual engagement. This cultural extravaganza now stands as a beacon in the branch’s history, inspiring future generations to continue building on this legacy of excellence and community.
Over the decades, the Palakkad Branch has witnessed continuous growth in membership and influence. Starting with just 22 members in 1951, the branch grew to 125 members by 1971. Today, IMA Palakkad proudly boasts a robust membership of over 900 medical professionals, reflecting its significant expansion and unwavering commitment to medical excellence. Currently, IMA Palakkad continues to uphold its rich traditions while striving for new achievements. With a focus on safeguarding the interests of the medical profession and promoting public health in the region, the branch’s legacy stands as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of its members, both past and present.