Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh), June 19: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday expressed strong optimism that India could eliminate sickle cell disease well before its national target year of 2047, calling for coordinated and sustained efforts across states to tackle the genetic blood disorder.
She was addressing a state-level programme held in Omkareshwar on the occasion of World Sickle Cell Day, where Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav were also present.
President Murmu emphasized that collective participation from all states would be crucial in achieving the country’s long-term public health goal. She noted that with unified action and awareness campaigns, India could succeed in removing the disease much earlier than planned.
“I am confident that with the collective strength and active participation of all states, we will certainly achieve our national goal of eliminating sickle cell disease from the country much before 2047,” she said.
Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder in which red blood cells become abnormally shaped, affecting oxygen flow in the body. The condition often leads to severe pain, anaemia, repeated infections, and other long-term health complications.
Highlighting the public health challenge, the President pointed out that the prevalence of the disease is significantly higher among tribal communities compared to the general population. She stressed that early detection, screening, and awareness are essential to reduce its spread across generations.
“I would like to appeal from this platform to all state governments and officials that this disease should not be taken lightly because it is passed on from one generation to another. Efforts should be made to eradicate it completely because treatment is possible,” she added.
Health experts note that timely diagnosis and preventive screening can play a major role in controlling the disorder, particularly in high-risk regions. States like Madhya Pradesh and Odisha continue to report higher cases among tribal populations, making targeted intervention programs especially important.
World Sickle Cell Day, observed every year on June 19, is dedicated to raising awareness about the disease, improving access to screening and treatment, and supporting patients affected by the condition.
The President’s remarks come as part of India’s broader commitment to strengthen healthcare outreach and eliminate genetic disorders through nationwide collaboration, improved medical infrastructure, and increased public awareness campaigns.