DEPwD Conducts Nationwide Awareness Programmes for World Sickle Cell Day 2025
On June 19, World Sickle Cell Awareness Day was marked by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The department organized a series of awareness programs, lectures, seminars, and webinars through its National Institutes and Composite Regional Centers (CRCs) across India. This year’s theme, “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy,” emphasizes the importance of community involvement in addressing Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder that affects millions worldwide.
Significance of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
World Sickle Cell Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder of the global efforts needed to combat Sickle Cell Disease. Recognized by the United Nations, this observance aims to promote early diagnosis, effective treatment, and supportive community environments for those affected by SCD. The day highlights the challenges faced by individuals with the disease, particularly in tribal populations, where it is most prevalent. By raising awareness, the initiative seeks to foster understanding and encourage proactive measures for managing the condition.
Awareness Programs Across the Nation
Various National Institutes and CRCs organized significant awareness programs to educate the public about Sickle Cell Disease. The National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities (NILD) in Kolkata hosted an event at NRS Medical College, where medical professionals shared insights on the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of SCD. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated effectively.
In Chennai, the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD) conducted a program for the general public at Chengalpattu. This event focused on disease management and the critical role communities play in supporting individuals with SCD. By engaging the public, the institute aimed to empower communities to take an active role in managing the disease.
Specialized Initiatives and Community Engagement
The Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR) in Cuttack organized a special program that underscored the importance of early detection and community support for individuals with SCD. By emphasizing effective management strategies, the institute aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge necessary to support those affected by the disease.
In Secunderabad, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) held an awareness session for parents, students, and field professionals. This initiative was designed to educate families and caregivers about SCD, fostering a supportive environment for those impacted by the disorder.
Collective Efforts to Raise Awareness
Additional awareness initiatives were conducted by CRCs across the country. The CRC in Tripura organized a program at Nutan Nagar Girls Higher Secondary School in Agartala, while CRC Gorakhpur hosted a seminar for children and their parents, focusing on the complexities of SCD and the importance of early diagnosis. Furthermore, CRC Nagpur conducted an online webinar to reach a broader audience.
These collective efforts by various institutes and CRCs aim to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease, empower communities, and ensure timely diagnosis and support for affected families. By fostering a culture of understanding and advocacy, these initiatives play a vital role in improving the lives of those impacted by SCD across India.
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