DEPwD organized Nationwide Awareness Programmes on World Sickle Cell Day 2025

Publish Date: June 24, 2025

The National Institute for Loco motor Disabilities (NILD), Kolkata organized an awareness programme at NRS Medical College, Kolkata, for patients and medical professionals. Experts shared insights on the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease.

Posted On: 20 JUN 2025 1:36PM by PIB Delhi

On the occasion of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through its National Institutes and Composite Regional Centers (CRCs) across the country, organized extensive awareness programmes including lectures, seminars, and webinars. The day, observed annually on 19th June, aims to raise global awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).Theme for World Sickle Cell Day 2025: “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy”.

About Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)

Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, hereditary blood disorder, commonly found among tribal populations, affecting millions worldwide. Recognized by the United Nations, this day promotes early diagnosis, effective treatment, and the creation of supportive communities for affected individuals.

Programmes Organized by National Institutes and CRCs

National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities (NILD), Kolkata

An awareness programme was held at NRS Medical College, Kolkata, targeting patients and medical professionals. Experts discussed symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of SCD.

National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai

An awareness programme was conducted for the general public in Chengalpattu, focusing on disease management and the role of communities.

The National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai held an awareness programme for the general public at Chengalpattu, focusing on disease management and the role of communities.

Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR), Cuttack

A special programme highlighted the importance of early detection, effective management, and community support for individuals with SCD.

The Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR), Cuttack conducted a special programme highlighting the importance of early detection, effective management, and community support for individuals with SCD.

National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad

An awareness session was organized for parents, students, and professionals at the institute’s auditorium.

The National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad organized an awareness session for parents, students, and field professionals at its auditorium.

Composite Regional Centers (CRCs)

CRC Tripura: Conducted an awareness programme at Nutan Nagar Girls Higher Secondary School, Agartala.
CRC Gorakhpur: Held a seminar through the Cross-Disability Early Intervention Centre (CDEIC), focusing on children and parents, covering SCD complexity, early diagnosis, and treatment.
CRC Nagpur: Hosted an online webinar to commemorate the day.

Additional Awareness Activities

Other national institutes and CRCs under DEPwD also carried out local-level initiatives. These collective efforts are aimed at:

Raising awareness about Sickle Cell Disease
Empowering communities
Ensuring timely diagnosis
Providing support to affected families across India