The Impressive TimesNew Delhi | June 20- In a powerful step toward public health advocacy, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, conducted a series of nationwide awareness programmes on the occasion of World Sickle Cell Day 2025, observed annually on June 19.
With the theme “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy,” this year’s initiatives focused on educating citizens, building community resilience, and improving early detection and treatment of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)—a genetic blood disorder that primarily affects tribal populations in India and millions worldwide.
Several National Institutes and Composite Regional Centers (CRCs) affiliated with DEPwD led local and regional initiatives, including lectures, seminars, and interactive sessions to enhance public understanding of SCD. Highlights include:
🩸 NILD Kolkata conducted a focused awareness programme at NRS Medical College, targeting healthcare professionals and patients. Medical experts detailed the clinical aspects of SCD—its symptoms, diagnostics, and evolving treatment protocols.
🩸 NIEPMD Chennai organized a large-scale outreach event in Chengalpattu, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in disease management and support systems for affected individuals.
🩸 SVNIRTAR Cuttack hosted a seminar highlighting early detection and the value of inclusive healthcare for SCD patients, encouraging families and caregivers to seek timely intervention.
🩸 NIEPID Secunderabad held an informative session at its auditorium for students, parents, and disability professionals, providing actionable insights into managing chronic conditions like SCD in neurodivergent individuals.
🩸 CRC Tripura ran an impactful awareness programme at Nutan Nagar Girls Higher Secondary School, Agartala, focusing on adolescent health and SCD awareness among young girls.
🩸 CRC Gorakhpur, through its Cross-Disability Early Intervention Centre (CDEIC), conducted a special seminar for children and parents, educating them about early symptoms and available medical pathways for Sickle Cell Disease.
🩸 CRC Nagpur reached wider audiences via a web-based webinar, promoting digital inclusion and expanding the reach of health awareness campaigns.
By leveraging regional expertise and grassroots networks, the DEPwD’s coordinated efforts are creating a strong foundation for early diagnosis, equitable healthcare access, and community empowerment for families living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Recognized by the United Nations, World Sickle Cell Day is not just a health observance, but a global call to action—and India is responding with local strength and inclusive strategy.
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