Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 26: The conference hall at Middle Point echoed with determination as more than a hundred Anganwadi workers from South Andaman came together not merely to attend another session, but to become messengers of survival. The Breast Cancer Awareness programme titled “Together We Rise”, organised by Rights for All (RFA) in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Dr. Ritika’s Multi-Specialty Hospital, turned into a powerful movement for early detection and community empowerment.
Breast cancer is now the most common cancer among Indian women. Every four minutes, a woman is diagnosed. Every thirteen minutes, a family loses someone beloved. These chilling realities were presented with empathy and urgency by Mrs. Rubina Siddiqui, President, Rights for All, in her opening address. She called upon Anganwadi workers to pledge that each one would educate at least five more women.
“This is not just a statistic. It is someone’s mother, daughter, sister. Let us be the reason they seek help in time,” she urged.
Chief Guest Shri Ravinder Kumar, Director of Social Welfare, applauded the efforts of Rights for All, recognising the immense burden carried by Anganwadi workers as the first custodians of maternal and child health at the grassroots.
“The well-being of those who take care of families must be a priority. Going forward, every welfare programme will include breast cancer awareness as a dedicated component,” he announced, reaffirming the Administration’s commitment to safeguarding women’s health and dignity.
The spotlight of the programme was the interactive and empathetic session by Dr. Sanampreet Kaur, Centre Head, GD Goenka Healthcare Academy and associated with Dr. Ritika’s Multi-Specialty Hospital. She simplified breast cancer detection techniques, encouraged regular self-exams and demonstrated CPR and crucial life-saving skills, empowering participants to respond confidently in emergencies. A lively Q&A followed, reflecting deep curiosity and a hunger for knowledge.
The programme, held at the Industries Department Conference Hall, Middle Point, concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Thamarai Selvi, General Secretary, Rights for All, acknowledging the support and enthusiasm of all stakeholders. The proceedings were gracefully conducted by Ms. Nagma Anish.
As the session ended, one could see it clearly: these frontline workers were walking out not just with information, but with purpose, ready to rise together and ensure that no woman in these islands fights breast cancer alone.