In 2005, Swami established the Santhigiri Healthcare & Research Organization (SHRO) to streamline and coordinate the flagship healthcare and medical initiatives of Santhigiri Ashram, strengthening its mission of holistic and compassionate healthcare.

Under his visionary leadership, the Ashram launched the trailblazing healthcare project ‘Santhigiri Karunyam’, aimed at providing free medicine distribution and sustained follow-up care to thousands across India. The first phase of this ambitious healthcare initiative was inaugurated by former Indian cricket team captain Mr. Mohammad Azharuddin, while the second phase was launched by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Shri Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

Through Santhigiri Karunyam, medicines worth approximately ₹3 crores were distributed free of cost to economically disadvantaged patients throughout the country, reinforcing the Ashram’s commitment to accessible and inclusive healthcare services.

This far-reaching philanthropic healthcare initiative, taken forward with Swami Gururethnam’s dynamic leadership, garnered the support and endorsement of numerous eminent personalities, including:

The Santhigiri Karunyam project stands as a testament to Santhigiri Ashram’s compassionate healthcare philosophy, seamlessly blending spiritual values with holistic medical service to humanity.

Under the Santhigiri Karunyam Project, Chandiroor Village in Alappuzha district, Kerala, was adopted and developed into a model Siddha village – Karunyam Siddha Gram, benefiting over 2,500 families. In addition to this initiative, Santhigiri Ashram’s healthcare services continue to extend wide-ranging philanthropic support and medical relief to poor and destitute patients across various regions of India.

One of the most impactful efforts includes monthly free eye camps and ophthalmic surgeries, organized in collaboration with the renowned Aravind Eye Hospital, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. These ophthalmic healthcare camps provide critical eye care services to those who would otherwise be unable to afford them.

Swami's pioneering efforts in promoting indigenous systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Siddha, and in delivering cost-effective, holistic healthcare, have been widely appreciated. As the chief organizer and global coordinator of Santhigiri Ashram’s healthcare institutions, Swami Gururethnam has rendered yeoman service to society by championing inclusive and sustainable health solutions.

A major milestone under his leadership is the establishment of Kerala’s first and only Siddha Medical College at Santhigiri Ashram, a landmark achievement in Siddha healthcare education and a significant feather in his illustrious cap.