Barwani (Madhya Pradesh): A state-level programme was organised on World Sickle Cell Day under the National Sickle Cell Eradication Mission-2047 in Talun Gram Panchayat under Barwani on Thursday. Heavy rains affected the event and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's visit was cancelled due to bad weather.
However, CM joined the programme online from Indore while Governor Mangubhai Patel reached the venue by road at 11:30 am.
Governor Mangubhai Patel emphasised the need for collective participation to eradicate sickle cell disease during a state-level conference in Barwani on World Sickle Cell Day. Deputy CM Shukla read President Draupadi Murmu's message, stating the government is working in mission mode for sickle cell elimination as health justice.
Governor Patel praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his commitment to tribal welfare, stating that a golden era of tribal empowerment is underway. He stressed the importance of awareness in eradicating sickle cell, urging couples to compare their genetic cards before marriage and to test mothers and newborns for the disease.
He highlighted the need for continuous efforts, stating that Madhya Pradesh is leading the nation in screenings. He also mentioned a special 100-day campaign starting July 1 to screen an additional 1.40 crore citizens.
He appealed to tribal representatives to actively participate in awareness campaigns and encouraged medical students to focus on Sickle Cell research. "Awareness and prevention should be part of educational curricula," he said.
CM Yadav reported that over 1.6 crore citizens have been screened, with 2 lakh carriers and 29,277 patients identified. He announced the opening of a new medical college in Khargone to improve health facilities in the Nimar region. CM Yadav suggested matching 'Sickle Cell Genetic Cards' along with horoscopes before marriage. He announced opening of a medical college in Khargone district and said Barwani is the most affected district where 'Sickle Friends' have been appointed.
Union Minister of State Savitri Thakur urged citizens to pledge for eradication of sickle cell anaemia. Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, Minister Dr Gautam Tetwal, ST Commission chairman Antar Singh Arya, Lok Sabha MP Gajendra Singh Patel and Rajya Sabha MP Dr Sumer Singh Solanki were present on stage.
