Union Minister Ramdas Athawale launched the 'Jagega Bharat Toh Bachega Bharat' campaign aimed at fostering cancer awareness and building a cancer-free India during an event held recently in Mumbai. Thousands gathered to participate, highlighting the urgency of addressing the alarming rise of cancer cases across the nation, particularly among women and children.
At the event, Athawale emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles and preventing substance abuse, claiming, "I never fall sick because I know what to eat and what to drink. I don’t drink at all." His message was clear: proactive health choices could significantly reduce cancer risks.
Accompanied by dignitaries like Dr. Harish Shetty, the founder of the Ambagopal Foundation; water conservationist Dr. Rajendra Singh, who is also a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee; and Padma Shri awardee Subhash Palekar, Athawale utilized poetry to captivate his audience and spread the campaign's message effectively. He fleshed out the campaign's framework using the Helping Our Society Heal (HOSH) concept, thereby aiming to instill awareness and encourage collective action against cancer.
Highlighting the session, Athawale recited poignant verses, including, "जब आप पलट देंगे कैंसर के किताबों का पन्ना, तब आपको मदद करने आएंगे डॉ. हरिश अन्ना।" His poetic flair combined with significant facts prompted listeners to reconsider their lifestyle choices. He poignantly expressed, "आपके दिल में अगर होगा होश, तो मत दे दो कैंसर को दोष," underlining personal responsibility for health.
Addressing the significance of preventive healthcare, Athawale reiterated the importance of regular exercise and healthy dietary habits. He urged attendees to adopt cleaner living standards and become advocates for the environment, proclaiming, "Plant trees, save trees, and drive cancer out of the country!" This not only strengthens health but also embraces sustainable living.
The launch saw enthusiastic participation from over 2,000 young individuals, which demonstrated the campaign's reach and the compelling need to inform the youth about the risks associated with cancer. Athawale's message dated back to traditional values of healthful living, reinforcing the notion of communal responsibility for well-being.
On the subject of addiction, he drew parallels between substance abuse and increased vulnerability to cancer. He emphasized, "अगर हम बंद कर देंगे नशा, तो जीवन सुंदर बनने की है आशा," inspiring the crowd to reject addictions to promote healthier living. His intent was clear: eliminating harmful habits could pave the way for longevity and health.
While the event radiated positivity and determination, Athawale's narrative also carried lighter notes of political humor. He playfully recounted how he became part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet, stating, "पहले तो दे दिया था मुझे धोखा, मोदीजी ने दिया मुझे मंत्रिपद का मौका," which drew laughter and applause, humanizing the political figure.
Dr. Harish Shetty’s relentless efforts complemented Athawale’s vision, echoing the campaign’s underlying sentiments. The partnership of the government with private initiatives like the Ambagopal Foundation has been deemed integral for combating increasing cancer rates. Athawale’s statement, "creating a cancer-free India is our collective responsibility," emphasized the shared initiative needed from both sectors.
With the backdrop of rising cancer statistics becoming harder to ignore, campaigns like 'Jagega Bharat Toh Bachega Bharat' are pivotal. Athawale’s commitment, blended with his poetic approach, encourages the broader populace to invest effort toward healthier lifestyles, effective healthcare practices, and environment-friendly habits.
Through collaboration and continued advocacy, stakeholders are hopeful for effective change. The challenge remains, but with initiatives sparking interest and action from the youth, the quest for cancer awareness is undeniably more attainable—symbolized by the campaign's spirited call to action. Athawale’s concluding appeal resonates persistently: ensuring health both physically and environmentally as part of our collective duties.