Specialised diabetes care, made easier to access.

For the past fifteen years, the Hirabai Cowasji Jehangir Medical Research Institute (HCJMRI) has been running Sweetlings, a charitable initiative dedicated to supporting children living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1DM). Enabled by the generous support of donors, Sweetlings has provided free, high-quality care and holistic support to over 850 children and their families.

The program offers an integrated approach, bringing together paediatricians, endocrinologists, dietitians, educators, psychologists, social workers, and volunteers. Its services include medical consultations, HbA1C monitoring, provision of insulin and glucometers, nutrition counselling, psychological support, school and home visits, youth empowerment, skill development, and community engagement activities. The goal has always been clear: to ensure that every child receives comprehensive care, both inside and outside the clinic.

Building on this strong foundation, HCJMRI is now establishing the Centre of Excellence (COE) for Type 1 Diabetes as a natural extension of the Sweetlings program. The COE will continue the same mission — holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate care for children and adolescents with T1DM — while expanding its reach and resources through a Hub & Spoke model.

The Centre will:

• Sustain all services pioneered under Sweetlings, supported by enhanced infrastructure.
• Strengthen education, counselling, and social empowerment for families.
• Enhance research and knowledge-sharing to improve diabetes management in India.
• Function as a hub for training, capacity building, and outreach programs across urban and rural communities.

With HCJMRI’s 30 years of experience in public health and community empowerment, the COE represents the strengthening of Sweetlings into a state-wide network of care — ensuring that children with Type 1 Diabetes receive the treatment, dignity, and opportunities they deserve for years to come.