Jaipur, April 25 (IANS). Vice President of India CP Radhakrishnan addressed the 23rd Cancer Survivors Day organized by Bhagwan Mahavir Cancer Hospital and Research Center in Jaipur on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said that Cancer Survivors Day is a celebration of unwavering hope and human courage. He appreciated Bhagwan Mahavir Cancer Hospital & Research Center and KG Kothari Memorial Trust for organizing the event and acknowledged the exemplary service of the hospital in the field of cancer since its inception in 1997, which has touched the lives of countless people through its dedicated and compassionate treatment.
Highlighting the increasing burden of cancer in India, the Vice President said that according to the National Cancer Registry Program of ICMR, more than 15 lakh cancer cases are reported in the country every year. He underlined that the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has launched several initiatives aimed at prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and patient care. He said that under Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, more than 68 lakh cancer treatments have been provided at a cost of more than Rs 13 thousand crore, out of which about 75 percent of the beneficiaries are from rural areas. This scheme is playing an important role in removing the shortcomings in health services.
The Vice President further said that the Central Government is setting up day care cancer centers in district hospitals across the country, of which more than 450 centers are already functional. He also highlighted the initiatives launched under the National Health Mission, including early detection through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and inclusion of anti-cancer drugs in the list of essential medicines in district and sub-divisional hospitals.
Emphasizing the importance of preventive health care, the Vice President talked about the nationwide HPV vaccination program launched earlier this year to combat cervical cancer, which aims to cover more than one crore girls. He appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Government of Rajasthan in taking this initiative forward.
The Vice President stressed the need for better coordination and shared knowledge among cancer treatment institutions across the country. He said that the latest technological advancements in cancer care should be effectively shared across all public and private hospitals, to ensure better outcomes and wider access to quality treatment. He underlined that greater collaboration and understanding between institutions would greatly strengthen the nation’s fight against cancer.
He stressed the need for constant awareness about the harmful effects of smoking, tobacco consumption, drug use and unhealthy fast food habits and said that lifestyle changes play an important role in reducing the risk of cancer.
Addressing the cancer survivors, the Vice President described them as warriors who have shown extraordinary determination and courage. He said their stories are a ray of hope for others and expressed his gratitude for the tireless service and compassion of the doctors and caregivers. He appreciated the hospital’s extensive efforts, including screening campaigns, mobile medical units and awareness campaigns such as street plays, educational lectures and community camps, which have contributed to early diagnosis and saving lives.
The Vice President called for collective efforts to raise awareness, encourage early diagnosis and ensure that no one fights cancer alone. He urged people to take inspiration from the stories of cancer survivors and stressed the need to build a society where hope triumphs over fear. The Vice President also honored cancer survivors on the occasion and praised their courage and determination in overcoming the disease.
Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Rajasthan Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar, Bhagwan Mahavir Cancer Hospital Chairman Navratan Kothari and other distinguished guests were also present on the occasion.
–IANS
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