Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Oct 26: Tamil Nadu is set to make history as the first Indian state to introduce a free cancer vaccination programme for girls between the ages of one and fourteen, announced State Health and Family Welfare minister Ma. Subramanian on Sunday.

Speaking at the 16th annual breast cancer awareness walkathon, “Oru Nadai Oru Nambikkai” (One Step, One Hope), held at Island Grounds in Chennai, the minister said the state government has allocated Rs 38 crore for the groundbreaking preventive healthcare project.

“The tender process has been completed. Once launched, Tamil Nadu will be the first state in the country to provide the cancer-preventive vaccine completely free of cost for girls aged one to fourteen,” Subramanian said, adding that the initiative would serve as a model for other states to follow.

The minister underscored the importance of physical fitness and healthy living in preventing cancer, citing research that shows regular walking or running significantly lowers the risk of developing the disease. “Scientific studies have proven that those who walk or run daily face a much lower cancer risk. Regular exercise is among the most effective preventive measures,” he stated.

Highlighting Chief Minister M. K. Stalin’s hands-on approach to public health and environmental protection, Subramanian noted that the Chief Minister had personally inspected the Adyar estuary for the second consecutive day as part of the state’s flood-preparedness efforts. “I myself walked 13 kilometres this morning,” the minister added, aligning with the event’s message of fitness and awareness.

Subramanian also shared that six districts in Tamil Nadu have been placed on alert following reports of a potential global resurgence of polio after nearly two decades. Precautionary vaccination campaigns, he assured, are already in progress to maintain immunity and safeguard public health.

“With such sustained health initiatives, Tamil Nadu continues to lead India in ensuring every citizen’s right to a healthy life,” he remarked.

The awareness walkathon saw participation from over 500 individuals, including actress Sanchita Shetty, cancer survivors, students, and volunteers.

Participants carried placards advocating early screening, fitness, and healthy living, further solidifying Tamil Nadu’s reputation as a pioneer in preventive healthcare and public wellness initiatives.