International Sickle Cell Day Commemoration
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the commemoration event at Omkareshwar, in Khandwa, on June 19, 2026. During her speech, she emphasized significant progress in combating sickle cell anaemia in India.
Efforts and Achievements
- Government Goals: The President stated that India aims to eradicate sickle cell anaemia well before the target year of 2047, urging States to prioritize awareness, especially among tribal communities.
- Screening Initiative: A key achievement highlighted was the screening of seven crore people aged 0-40 years since the launch of the National Mission in 2023, marking one of the largest genetic disease screening efforts globally.
- Mission Mode Screening: This initiative has led to the identification of approximately 2,50,000 affected individuals and over 20 lakh carriers of sickle cell-related diseases.
State-Specific Progress
- Madhya Pradesh's Contribution: The President praised the State for its efforts, including screening 1.25 crore people and providing genetic counselling cards.
- Tribal Community Impact: Scientific studies indicate higher prevalence rates among tribal communities, prompting calls for more intensive eradication efforts.
National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission - 2047
- Launch and Impact: Initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023, this mission combines efforts from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- Integrated Approach: The campaign integrates public health, tribal welfare, genetic science, and digital monitoring, with participation from 17 States.
President Murmu concluded her two-day tour of Madhya Pradesh, highlighting the collective national effort required to eliminate sickle cell anaemia.
