New Delhi- In a major stride towards preventive healthcare for women, the Government of India has successfully screened more than 10.18 crore women aged 30 and above for cervical cancer. This milestone has been achieved under the National Health Mission through the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, reflecting a sustained focus on early detection and management of non-communicable diseases.
The initiative targets women between the ages of 30 to 65, using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid as the primary screening method. Conducted by trained health workers at sub-health and primary health centres, the screening process enables timely identification of suspected cases. Women who test positive are referred to higher centres for further evaluation, ensuring a continuum of care.
Accredited Social Health Activists have been instrumental at the grassroots level. By using Community Based Assessment Checklist forms, they identify women at risk and guide them to attend regular check-ups. They also play a key role in spreading awareness about early detection, the importance of lifestyle changes, and participation in wellness activities. These efforts are further strengthened by nationwide awareness drives that coincide with observances like National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day.
To enhance public engagement, print, electronic, and social media platforms are used to disseminate health messages across urban and rural communities. Each state and union territory receives dedicated funds under their Programme Implementation Plans to carry out these awareness campaigns effectively.
The Ministry of Health had also launched an intensified campaign for NCD screening from 20 February to 31 March 2025, aimed at boosting coverage among adults aged 30 years and above. This short-term but focused effort contributed significantly to the current figures.
According to data from the National NCD Portal as of 20 July 2025, out of the 25.42 crore eligible female population aged 30 years and above, over 10.18 crore women have already been screened for cervical cancer. This achievement is not just a numerical victory but a reflection of the government’s commitment to making preventive and accessible healthcare a reality for every woman.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav shared this update in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, reinforcing the importance of proactive and inclusive healthcare measures in safeguarding women’s health across the country.
