By Our Correspondent
BARGARH: Cancer awareness should not be confined to cities; it must reach rural areas extensively, as the disease is now rapidly spreading in villages as well. The primary reasons for this include a lack of awareness and inadequate medical facilities in rural regions. Keeping this in mind, Bargarh Cancer Fighters Group organized a special event today on February 4 – World Cancer Day, marking the first time such a program was held in the state.
To build a cancer-free society, Bargarh Fighters Group has launched an innovative initiative called “Mission Gaon Ku Jiba’ (Mission Gaon Ku Jiba – Mission to the Village). As part of this program, a “Cancer Awareness Run-Walkathon” was conducted today at the Bargarh District Headquarters and across all 12 block headquarters of the district to raise awareness about cancer. Approximately 5,000 participants joined this awareness run and district tour across all 12 blocks.
The event in Bargarh commenced at Lengu Mishra Mini Stadium with a gathering before the run. District Magistrate Aditya Goyal, the chief guest, addressed the attendees, urging the youth to stay away from harmful substances that can cause cancer and to contribute to building a healthier society. He praised the role of the Fighters Group in combating cancer and assured full support from the district administration for this initiative.
Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Mrs. Nirupama Sarangi, the guest of honor, emphasized the importance of early detection and modern medical treatment for effective cancer management. She shared her personal loss, stating, “I lost my mother and sister to this disease, which is why I want the district health department to work aggressively in this direction.”
The number of cancer patients in Bargarh district is increasing rapidly. While the Fighters Group, formed by cancer survivors, has been organizing multiple health camps and awareness programs in Bargarh city, rural communities still lack adequate awareness. With cancer reaching even the most remote villages, fear is growing in these areas. In response to this situation, Fighters Group has launched “Mission Gaon Ku Jiba” on World Cancer Day to spread cancer awareness at the grassroots level.
Fighters Group President Prasanna Kumar Mishra stated that the main objective of “Mission Gaon Ku Jiba” is to spread awareness about cancer and prepare the community to fight against it. He emphasized that with active participation from all blocks, this campaign would be a major step toward creating a healthy and cancer-aware society in Bargarh. He also announced that volunteer teams will be formed in each block to educate people about the causes of cancer and preventive measures. The campaign’s framework has already been planned.
The Chairman of Fighters Group Trust, Aswini Kumar Darjee, shared insights about the “Mission Gaon Ku Jiba” initiative, stating that this mega cancer awareness run and mass rally is not just an event but a movement. Its goal is to empower individuals and communities with knowledge and resources to fight against cancer.
Through active participation from all blocks, this initiative aims to build a healthier and more cancer-aware society in Bargarh. To achieve this, volunteers will be appointed in each block to create awareness about cancer among the people. A detailed blueprint has been prepared to guide this effort effectively.
The event featured Oncologist Dr. Bharat Mishra, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Patel, and gynecologist Dr. Shakti Tripathi, who provided valuable insights to the attendees. Cancer survivor Pratap Chandra Das shared his personal journey. Fighters Group Vice President Minati Pati hosted the event, while senior member Professor Suryakanti Sikandar introduced the distinguished guests.
National-level athletes Gyan Ranjan Pujari and Sheikh Sabdar, who represent Bargarh, were also invited to the stage. Several organizations, including the Bargarh Physical Academy, educational institutions, state-level athletes, and various voluntary groups, actively participated in this awareness run and walkathon.
The campaign was conducted under the leadership of state-level coach Suresh Das (Natu), while District Magistrate Aditya Goyal and Chief District Medical Officer Mrs. Sarangi flagged off the event to encourage the participants.
“Mission Gaon Ku Jiba” is not just a program; it is a widespread movement aimed at educating people about cancer and empowering them with the knowledge and resources to fight this disease effectively.
