Maharashtra to launch ‘Arunodaya’ sickle cell screening drive from January 15 across 21 districts

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The Maharashtra government's Public Health and Family Welfare Department will roll out a special statewide sickle cell screening drive, ‘Arunodaya', from January 15 to February 7, with the aim of moving towards a sickle cell-free Maharashtra.

As per the official statement issued by the Public Health and Family Welfare, the campaign will be implemented in 21 districts with a high prevalence of sickle cell disease, where authorities plan to ensure that every citizen undergoes testing.

The statement also mentioned that the initiative is being carried out as per the instructions of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar and under the guidance of Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar and Minister of State Meghna Sakore Bordikar.

Health officials said that preparatory work for the campaign has been completed, with special emphasis on early diagnosis, timely treatment, and referral services.

Furthermore, Minister Abitkar has further directed the officials to ensure that no sickle cell patient, particularly in tribal areas, is left without screening or medical support.

According to official data, between 2019 and October 31, 2025, over 1.05 crore solubility tests were conducted across the state, leading to the identification of 12,420 sickle cell patients and 124,275 carriers.

Sickle Cell Control Program in Maharashtra has been running since 2008

The Sickle Cell Control Program, which has been operational since 2008, covers districts including Thane, Nashik, Nandurbar, Amravati, Gadchiroli, Palghar, Nagpur, Chandrapur, Yavatmal, Jalgaon, Nanded, Raigad and others.

Services under the Sickle Cell Control Program offer free screening, advanced diagnostic tests, medicines, counselling, regular health check-ups, blood transfusions when required, and telemedicine-based expert consultations.

What is sickle cell disease?

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder in which red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, leading to blockages in blood vessels, severe pain episodes, organ damage, and reduced immunity.

Health officials stress that while there is no complete cure, early detection and proper management can significantly improve quality of life and life expectancy.

The department has urged citizens to undergo testing, especially before marriage, and to seek medical advice during pregnancy if there is a known family history of the disease. Free testing, diagnosis, and treatment facilities are available at government hospitals, while patients are also eligible for financial assistance and other benefits under state welfare schemes.

Officials also emphasised, "The ‘Arunodaya' campaign is a crucial step towards prevention, awareness, and long-term control of sickle cell disease in Maharashtra."