Nagpur: The Zilla Parishad is running a district-wide campaign to safeguard future generations from sickle cell anaemia. The drive, ‘Arunodaya’, continues until February 7, offering extensive health screening and awareness programs for citizens aged 0–40 across Nagpur district.Its primary aim is early detection, prevention, and long-term control of sickle cell disease through medical intervention and active community participation.
Designed as more than a routine health check-up, the campaign functions as a mass movement against sickle cell disease. It includes preliminary screening of suspected cases, HPLC testing, free treatment, and a strong emphasis on pre-marital and pre-natal counselling.The initiative is being implemented under the guidance of district collector Dr Vipin Itankar and the supervision of ZP CEO Vinayak Mahamuni, the health department says.As part of the campaign, young men and women are urged to undergo sickle cell testing before marriage and compare their ‘sickle cell profiles’ to ensure safer future generations. Awareness materials are being disseminated in Gondi and other local dialects through audio messages, banners, and public announcements.Awareness activities are being organized in schools, colleges, and ashram schools, including morning rallies, quizzes, rangoli, and essay competitions. At the village level, information is being shared via public announcements and microphone campaigns. Special screening stalls are set up at local festivals, fairs, and religious gatherings to facilitate on-the-spot testing.The district health machinery is fully mobilised for the campaign. Under the guidance of district health officer Dr Rajkumar Gehlot, along with taluka health officers and medical officers at primary health centres, ASHA workers, ANMs, and volunteers are conducting door-to-door awareness drives. Public representatives, religious leaders, social workers, and the media are actively participating to ensure wide outreach.The health department appeals to all citizens up to the age of 40—especially the youth—to get tested for sickle cell disease and actively participate in the campaign to make Nagpur district sickle cell–free.
