The Inspiring Journey of AHMA: From Humble Beginnings to Statewide Leadership
The history of AHMA is a story of perseverance, dedication, and visionary leadership. What began with a handful of passionate individuals has grown into a powerful alliance shaping Ayurvedic healthcare across Kerala and beyond.
Origins
(2005 – Early Days)
AHMA was born in 2005, during a critical phase when the government introduced the Vellada Bill Ordinance — a time that demanded a united voice to protect and promote Ayurveda’s credibility.
The first meeting was attended by just five devoted individuals, who registered the association under number 775/05, laying the foundation of AHMA.
From that moment forward, Dr. Baby Krishnan emerged as the backbone of AHMA, tirelessly advocating for Ayurveda — drafting petitions, liaising with authorities, initiating legal platforms, and nurturing the organisation from its infancy.
First State Conference
A Small Step, Big Hope
The first state-level gathering was organised in Ernakulam at Hotel Woodland. Despite minimal resources — no district committees, few members — the event succeeded.
Although only 75 participants were expected, 102 attendees came, many not yet official members. What seemed like a simple conference was in reality a symbol of commitment and belief.
Ernakulam 2007
Ayurveda Hospital Management Association (AHMA). Conducted when the organization was still in its formative years, the conference reflected the strong determination and collective vision of its founding members. Despite limited resources and a small membership base, the event was successfully organized in Ernakulam, demonstrating AHMA’s commitment to unity, professional growth, and the protection of Ayurveda. The Sammelanam brought together practitioners, administrators, and supporters from across the state, creating a platform for discussion, collaboration, and shared purpose. This historic gathering laid the foundation for AHMA’s future expansion and strengthened its resolve to emerge as a statewide voice for Ayurveda.
Building Momentum: Key Milestones
Second State Conference — 2009, Kollam
Held at Kollam Beach Resort, inaugurated by the then-Chief Minister of Kerala, V. S. Achuthanandan.
The event featured a broad public-oriented program:
- Free medical camps
- Exhibitions
- Essay competitions
- Case-presentations
- Special hospital awards
This conference earned widespread public recognition — marking AHMA’s arrival as a serious, collective voice for Ayurveda.
Third State Conference — 2012
Kottakkal (P.M. Auditorium)
Expanded in scope: seminars, health & education discussions, insurance-awareness classes, exhibitions, free camps, cultural programmes, and more.
Distinguished guests, including E. Ahamed (Union Minister) and senior state ministers, attended — reflecting AHMA’s growing influence.
- The energy and dedication of the youth, especially from Malappuram, stood out — a direct result of the leadership’s efforts to build strong grassroots participation.
Fourth State Conference —
2017
Alappuzha (Hotel Ramada)
Held on 22–23 April 2017, this conference honored the legendary Ayurvedic scholar Raghavan Thirumulpad with a symbolic procession (led by his son) and broader conference ambitions: NABH discussions, clinical-allotment sessions, case-presentation awards, and more.
Despite his deteriorating health (undergoing peritoneal dialysis), Dr. Baby Krishnan remained fully committed — making multiple calls a day to ensure smooth coordination. The successful closing at one of Kerala’s most prestigious venues, a Kochi Marriott Hotel, marked a powerful symbol of AHMA’s institutional maturity.
Fifth State Conference -
Thrissur - 2021
Fifth State Conference of the Ayurveda Hospital Management Association (AHMA) was held in 2021 at Thrissur, further strengthening the organization’s legacy of unity and professional excellence. Conducted during a challenging period, the conference reflected AHMA’s resilience, adaptability, and continued commitment to the advancement of Ayurveda
Sixth State Conference—
2024 January 28
Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta
Sixth State Conference of the Ayurveda Hospital Management Association (AHMA) was held on January 28, 2024, at Dr. Arshad Nagar, Hotel KGA Elite Continental, Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta. The conference served as an important platform for Ayurvedic hospital administrators, practitioners, and leaders to come together and discuss key developments in healthcare management, clinical excellence, and the future direction of Ayurveda. Through focused sessions and meaningful interactions, the event strengthened professional unity and reinforced AHMA’s commitment to advancing Ayurveda across the state.
AHMA Bhavan
Dr Babykrishnan Smaraka AHMA Bhavan is the official administrative and collaborative center of the Ayurveda Hospital Management Association. Designed to support organizational activities, it hosts meetings, training sessions, policy discussions, and professional interactions that contribute to the growth and governance of Ayurveda healthcare institutions.
Trials, Tenacity & Unseen Battles
The journey was not easy. AHMA faced hurdles: insurance resistance, legal complexities, policy ambiguities, missed deadlines, delayed submissions, financial strain — yet refused to compromise on standards.
Initiatives such as clinical protocol preparation, launching paramedical (ANPT) courses to address workforce shortages, and representing Ayurveda in national-level platforms — many of these demanded persistence and repeated effort.
- Dr. Baby Krishnan’s leadership was instrumental in mentoring individuals who would carry forward the mission — people like Shaji Kadengal, Dr. Jasul, and others who matured under his guidance.
- «You get many mangoes, but only a few give sweet fruit.» — his belief in quality over quantity guided AHMA’s journey.
Legacy: AHMA Today —
A Strong, Structured & Influential Organization
Every achievement — each conference, advocacy, insurance reform, clinical initiative — carries Dr. Krishnan’s signature of dedication.
Today, AHMA stands as a symbol of resilience, vision, unity, and unwavering faith in Ayurveda. The robust network, institutional respect, widespread membership, and continued social impact are fruits of decades of labor and belief.
- AHMA’s journey reminds us that one visionary’s persistent commitment can build an institution capable of transforming an entire sector.
AHMA’s history is not just a record — it is inspiration.