A
Intravenous (IV) fluid therapy was first used in humans globally in 1831 during the cholera epidemic (by Dr. Thomas Latta in Scotland).
In India, IV fluids began to be used by the late 19th to early 20th century, during the repeated cholera epidemics under British colonial medical services.
Most likely timeline for India
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Late 1800s: British physicians practicing in India were already familiar with IV saline therapy from Europe and began applying it during severe cholera outbreaks in Bengal and Bombay Presidencies.
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Early 1900s: Use became more systematic in hospitals and medical colleges (Calcutta Medical College, Madras Medical College, Grant Medical College in Bombay).
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Mid-20th century: Widespread adoption of IV fluids in civilian and military hospitals, especially during famines, infections, and later in surgery and obstetrics.
Why records are vague
Early medical records in India were not always detailed about specific procedures. However, cholera treatment reports from the 1800s show IV saline use by British medical officers in the region.
Short answer
IV fluids were being used in humans in India at least by the late 19th century (1880s–1890s), and definitely by the early 20th century in major hospitals.
If you want, I can provide the names of specific doctors, hospitals, or the earliest documented case reports from India.
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