President Murmu Reiterates India's Ambitious Goal to Eradicate Sickle Cell Anaemia by 2047

President Droupadi Murmu has affirmed India's commitment to eradicate sickle cell anaemia by the year 2047. She highlighted the nation's ongoing efforts towards achieving this ambitious target, expressing confidence that collaborative endeavors in the health sector would make this goal attainable.

The Union Government launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission in 2023. This mission specifically focuses on 278 districts across 17 states where the disease is prevalent, particularly among tribal communities. The primary objective is to screen approximately 7 crore people and implement necessary measures for disease prevention and management.

Exam Insights & GK Analysis: President Murmu's statement on sickle cell anaemia eradication is a significant current affairs topic for competitive exams. The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023, in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the formation of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to crescent-shaped red blood cells that hinder blood flow and oxygen delivery. In India, its prevalence is higher among the tribal population, with a strong presence in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is responsible for implementing this mission.