 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 17: In alignment with the visionary goal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to eliminate cancer from India, a transformative mega cancer awareness and screening campaign was successfully organized in Jammu from March 15 to March 17, 2025. The event, spearheaded by the World Cancer Care Charitable Society in collaboration with the Health Employees Welfare Association Jammu, DGPC & NGO SUPPORT, brought together government bodies, medical professionals, NGOs, and community leaders to address the critical need for cancer awareness and early detection in rural and underserved communities.
The campaign was held at Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Chand Nagar and saw the participation of over 800 women and 350 men who availed advanced screening services, including mammography and Pap smears. The event was inaugurated by Hon'ble Justice Sanjeev Kumar Shukla in the presence of prominent dignitaries, including S. Ravinder Singh (President, Health Employees Welfare Association Jammu), S Ranjit Singh Tora (President, DGPC Jammu), Rotarian Dr. Navneet Kaur (Chairperson, Rotary Community Corps SUPPORT), and other key stakeholders.
S. Ravinder Singh and DGPC President Ranjit Singh Tora emphasized that the campaign was a significant step toward bridging the healthcare gap in rural communities, particularly for women who often face barriers to accessing medical services. By bringing advanced screening techniques to their doorstep, the initiative empowered women with the knowledge and tools to take charge of their health.
Dr. Navneet Kaur, a renowned social reformer and healthcare advocate, highlighted the critical role of early detection in combating cancer. She stressed the importance of community outreach health initiatives and encouraged women to prioritize their health by participating in regular screenings. "Early detection saves lives. Our goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against cancer," she said.
The campaign was supported by a diverse network of organizations, including the State Cancer Institute, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu & Kathua, NGO SUPPORT, Kunwar Rani Ritu Singh Maharaja Hari Singh Foundation, CMO Jammu S Harbaksh Singh, and Rotary Club Bahu under the flagship of Rotary 3070. The involvement of CMOs, BMOs, ASHA, and Anganwadi workers further strengthened the outreach, ensuring that the message of cancer prevention and early detection reached the most remote areas.
The valedictory ceremony was graced by MLA R.S. Pura, S. Narinder Dee Singh, and MLA Bahu, Choudhary Vikram Singh Randhawa, who commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders. They stated, "We care about our country and our community. There is nobility in compassion and beauty in empathy. Together, we can achieve so much if we decide to do good."
Dr. Navneet Kaur expressed gratitude to all support groups, government and semi-government sectors, and NGOs working in the field of cancer. "Our attempt is to provide an opportunity for patients, families, and friends to discuss concerns, ask questions, and share information. Screening increases the likelihood of catching the disease at an earlier and more treatable stage," she said.
S. Ravinder Singh concluded the event with a vote of thanks, acknowledging S. Kulwant Shungi Dhaliwal, Chairperson of WCC Charitable Society, Mr. Jatinder Singh Dhillon, and his team of 25 doctors and paramedics with a mobile fleet of five buses equipped with hi-tech diagnostic labs. "This camp is a testament to the impact of collaborative efforts in improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved populations. Together, we can make a difference," he said.
The success of the campaign underscores the power of collective action in addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time. It serves as a model for future initiatives aimed at creating a cancer-free India. |
