It’s a bold and widely discussed move, Hyderabad based paediatrician Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh has resigned from the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP), India’s largest organisation of child health specialists.
Her resignation which came just days ago in April 2026, stems from deep concerns over how certain electrolyte drinks are marketed to parents and what she describes as a lack of institutional support when she faced legal pushback.
This isn’t just another news headline. It touches on something every Indian parent deals with: choosing the right hydration options when your child has diarrhoea or dehydration. Let’s break down the story, the science behind it and what it means for families across the country.
Who Is Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh?
Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh is a practising paediatrician in Hyderabad with years of clinical experience. For nearly eight years, she has publicly advocated for clearer information about oral rehydration products used for children. Her goal has always been simple: help parents make informed choices during common childhood illnesses instead of relying on confusing marketing claims.
Her consistent efforts played a key role in prompting the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to issue a directive in October 2025. The regulator banned the use of the term “ORS” on non standard beverages that don’t meet World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for medical oral rehydration solutions.
The ORS Controversy Explained
Diarrhoea remains one of the top causes of illness and hospital visits among Indian children. The WHO recommended Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a carefully balanced mix of salts, glucose, and water designed to help the body absorb fluids quickly and safely. It is low in sugar and formulated specifically to prevent or treat dehydration without upsetting the stomach further.
However, many colourful flavoured electrolyte drinks sold in the market were being positioned in ways that made parents believe they were the same as medical ORS. Products like ORSL (later rebranded as ERZL by Kenvue/Johnson & Johnson) became popular because of their taste and packaging. Dr. Santosh and others pointed out that these drinks often contain higher sugar levels and different compositions compared to standard medical ORS. The worry? Confused parents might reach for the wrong option during a child’s illness, potentially delaying proper recovery or even worsening symptoms in some cases.
After the FSSAI ban, manufacturer rebranded the product. Dr. Santosh continued raising awareness that the new version’s packaging and messaging could still create confusion. This led to legal notices from the companies, which she says left her without adequate backing from the IAP.
In her resignation statement, Dr. Santosh reportedly said the environment had become too challenging and that she would rather focus solely on children’s well being. “Enough is enough,” she is quoted as saying, choosing advocacy over continued association with the academy.
Why This Story Matters to Every Indian Parent
As parents, we want quick, safe solutions when our kids fall ill. In busy households, it’s easy to grab a ready to drink bottle that looks “doctor recommended” because of clever marketing but this controversy reminds us how important it is to look beyond packaging.
Here’s what the discussion highlights:
Practical Tips for Parents on Child Hydration
While this is not medical advice (always consult your paediatrician), here are general, evidence based points many doctors share:
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult your child’s paediatrician for personalised recommendations.
The Bigger Picture: Courage in Medicine
Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh’s decision to step down highlights the challenges doctors sometimes face when prioritising public health over institutional comfort. Her eight year campaign shows how one voice can drive regulatory change and spark national conversations.
Whether you agree with her approach or not, the core message is powerful: children’s health should always come first. Clear labelling, ethical marketing, and strong institutional support for doctors ultimately benefit families.
What do you think? Have you ever felt confused by the wide range of electrolyte drinks on the market? Have you faced similar dilemmas while caring for a sick child? Share your thoughts in the comments below let’s keep the conversation going and help more parents stay informed.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Prioritise evidence based child health.
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