SHADOL: In a momentous event held in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. This groundbreaking mission aims to tackle the urgent health challenges presented by sickle cell disease, particularly among tribal communities. With determination in his voice, PM Modi declared, "Today, in the very heartland of Shahdol, our nation embarks on a resolute mission—a mission to eradicate the scourge of sickle cell anaemia. The welfare of our tribal sisters and brothers remains a top priority for our government. The launch of the 'Sickle Cell Anaemia Mukti Mission' in Madhya Pradesh's Shahdol will usher in a transformative change in their lives."

India bears the burden of nearly half of the global sickle cell anaemia cases. However, over the past 70 years, no substantial efforts were made to eliminate this disease. PM Modi expressed his disappointment in the previous governments, accusing them of neglecting the plight of the tribal population, who suffered the most from this debilitating condition.

Furthermore, PM Modi strongly criticized the previous Congress administrations for their apathy towards the issues faced by the tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh. He proudly highlighted the success of the Centre's Ayushman Bharat scheme, which has saved countless lives and averted medical bills worth lakhs of crores for the underprivileged across India. An astounding 50 crore people have already benefited from the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

The ambitious National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, as outlined in the Union Budget 2023, will be implemented across 278 districts in 17 states. These states include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar, and Uttarakhand, according to an official release.

In addition, PM Modi has initiated the distribution of approximately 3.57 crore Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) cards in Madhya Pradesh. The distribution ceremonies are being held in urban areas, gram panchayats, and development blocks throughout the state. This campaign aims to fulfill the Prime Minister's vision of ensuring the complete saturation of welfare schemes by reaching every eligible beneficiary.

During the event, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to Rani Durgavati, the valiant queen who ruled Gondwana during the mid-16th century. Rani Durgavati is revered as a fearless and courageous warrior who valiantly fought against the Mughals to secure freedom for her people.

In a remarkable gesture, PM Modi will also visit Pakaria village in Shahdol district to engage in an interactive session with tribal community leaders, self-help groups, representatives of PESA (Panchayats [Extension to Scheduled Areas] Act, 1996) committees, and leaders of Village Football Clubs. This visit underscores the Prime Minister's commitment to fostering direct connections with the grassroots communities.

The launch of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission and the distribution of Ayushman cards mark significant milestones in the journey towards a healthier and more inclusive India, where the well-being of every citizen is of paramount importance.