‘Thalassemia-Free Maharashtra’ Resolve Week to Be Observed Across State: Minister Meghna Sakore-Bordikar

Mumbai, April 2026: Minister of State for Public Health and Family Welfare Meghna Sakore-Bordikar has announced the active promotion of the “Thalassemia-Free Maharashtra” campaign and directed that a statewide “Resolve Week” be observed from May 1 to May 8, 2026.

She stated that the initiative will focus on strengthening prevention, screening, and awareness activities related to thalassemia across Maharashtra, ensuring greater public participation and engagement.

The Resolve Week is being organized on the occasion of the completion of one year of the campaign, during which a series of theme-based activities will be conducted across the state. Citizens have been urged to actively participate in the awareness drive, which will culminate on World Thalassemia Day on May 8.

Key Activities Planned During the Week:

May 1 – Inauguration and Resolve Day (Theme: Commitment to Prevention)
The campaign will begin with pledge-taking ceremonies across all health institutions at state and district levels. A state-level inauguration, press conference, and media briefing will be held alongside the launch of a digital awareness campaign including reels and short videos.

May 2 – School and College Awareness Day (Theme: “Test Before Marriage”)
Educational institutions will host lectures, poster competitions, essay contests, and awareness sessions explaining carrier status and the importance of premarital screening. Real-life case studies will also be presented to build emotional awareness among youth.

May 3 – Health Worker Training Day (Theme: Capacity Building)
ASHA, ANM, and other field health workers will be trained on thalassemia and hemoglobin disorders, including early detection, counselling techniques, and reporting systems.

May 4 – Maternal and Family Counseling Day (Theme: Healthy Future Generation)
Antenatal clinics will conduct screenings and counseling for high-risk couples, along with genetic counseling and guidance on healthy child planning.

May 5 – Patient Support and Blood Donation Day (Theme: Care for Existing Patients)
Blood donation camps will be organized for thalassemia patients, along with support sessions involving NGOs and distribution of free medicines and care kits.

May 6 – Screening Day (Theme: ‘Know Your Status’)
Screening camps will be held across hospitals and health centers, including Hb electrophoresis and CBC tests, especially targeting individuals aged 18–35 and engaged couples. A common day-care center model will support treatment for thalassemia, hemophilia, and sickle cell anemia patients.

May 7 – Awareness Rally and Media Day (Theme: Mass Awareness Movement)
Rallies and morning marches will be organized at district and taluka levels. Awareness campaigns will also be promoted through radio, television, and social media, with participation from celebrities and local leaders.

May 8 – World Thalassemia Day (Theme: Hidden No More: Finding the Undiagnosed, Supporting the Unseen)
A state-level program will be held, connected virtually with all districts. Individuals and organizations including doctors, health workers, NGOs, patients, and caregivers who have made significant contributions will be honored. A roadmap for the next year of the campaign will also be announced.

The minister emphasized that the initiative aims to build a healthier future generation by preventing genetic blood disorders through early awareness and systematic intervention.