Jamshedpur MLA Purnima Sahu demands statewide cervical cancer vaccination campaign

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Mar 8: Jamshedpur East MLA Purnima Sahu raised a crucial health issue concerning women’s well-being during the Zero Hour of the budget session of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly. The MLA highlighted the alarming rise in cases of cervical cancer, which has become the second deadliest cancer for women globally. She called for urgent action from the state government, urging them to run an extensive vaccination campaign to protect girls from this deadly disease.

Purnima Sahu emphasized that cervical cancer is a serious health threat to women, with a growing number of cases in Jharkhand. She stated, “Cervical cancer has become a pressing issue not just globally, but also in our state. It’s essential that we provide preventive measures such as vaccination, especially to girls aged 9 to 14 years, which can significantly reduce the risk of this deadly disease.” She expressed concern that many families are unable to afford the vaccine due to its high cost and the lack of awareness further hinders widespread protection for young girls.

The MLA continued, “What better gift for women on International Women’s Day than for the government to take concrete action on their health?” She proposed that the government initiate a statewide vaccination drive, providing the vaccine free of charge or at an affordable rate to ensure all girls in Jharkhand have access to it.

Sahu further suggested that the government partner with private companies, industrial houses and social organizations under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs to help fund the vaccination campaign. “This collaboration would ensure that every girl child in Jharkhand receives this vital protection,” she said, urging the state government to act swiftly before the situation worsens.