The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, addressed the 23rd Cancer Survivors’ Day organised by Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Jaipur today. Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said that Cancer Survivors’ Day is a celebration of unwavering hope and the extraordinary courage of the human spirit.
He appreciated the Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Centre and the K.G. Kothari Memorial Trust for organising the event and acknowledged the hospital’s exemplary service in cancer care since its inception in 1997, touching countless lives through its dedicated and compassionate treatment.
Highlighting the growing burden of cancer in India, the Vice-President noted that as per ICMR’s National Cancer Registry Programme, the country has over 15 lakh cancer cases annually. He underlined that the Government, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has launched several initiatives aimed at prevention, early detection, treatment, and patient care.
He stated that under the Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, more than 68 lakh cancer treatments amounting to over ₹13,000 crore have been provided, with nearly 75% of beneficiaries from rural areas, highlighting the scheme’s role in bridging healthcare gaps.
The Vice-President further noted that the Central Government is establishing Day Care Cancer Centres in district hospitals across the country, with more than 450 centres already operational. He also highlighted initiatives under the National Health Mission, including early screening through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and the inclusion of anti-cancer drugs in the Essential Drugs List at district and sub-divisional hospitals.
Emphasising the importance of preventive healthcare, the Vice-President spoke about the nationwide HPV vaccination programme launched earlier this year to combat cervical cancer, aiming to cover over one crore girls. He appreciated the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Government of Rajasthan for their efforts in advancing this initiative.
The Vice-President emphasised the need for stronger coordination and shared learning among cancer treatment institutions across the country.He said that the latest technological advancements in cancer care must be effectively shared among all hospitals, both public and private, to ensure better outcomes and wider access to quality treatment.
He underlined that greater collaboration and understanding between institutions would significantly strengthen the nation’s fight against cancer. He stressed the need for continuous awareness about the harmful effects of smoking, tobacco consumption, drug use, and unhealthy fast food habits, noting that lifestyle changes play a critical role in reducing cancer risks.
Addressing cancer survivors, the Vice-President described them as “warriors” who have demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. He said their journeys serve as a beacon of hope for others and expressed gratitude to doctors and caregivers for their tireless service and compassion.
He commended the hospital for its extensive outreach efforts, including screening campaigns, mobile medical units, and awareness initiatives such as street plays, educational lectures, and community camps, which have contributed to early detection and saving lives.
The Vice-President called for collective efforts to promote awareness, encourage early detection, and ensure that no one fights cancer alone. He urged people to draw strength from the stories of survivors and reaffirmed the need to build a society where hope overcomes fear.
The Vice-President also also honoured cancer survivors on the occasion, recognising their courage and resilience in overcoming the disease. The Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde; Health Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Gajendra Singh Khimsar; Chairman of Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital, Shri Navrattan Kothari; and other distinguished guests, were present on the occasion.