Boosting Tribal Health: Rs 10 Crore Reward for Unearthing Sickle Cell Solution

The Indian government has announced a significant initiative to combat sickle cell disease, offering an award of Rs 10 crore for the development of an effective drug. Sickle cell disease is a critical health issue affecting India's tribal populations disproportionately.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as part of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission launched in July 2023, aims to eradicate the disease by 2047. The mission plans to screen seven crore individuals under 40 years old. Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Durgadas Uikey, introduced the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Prize, intended to incentivize the creation of a new treatment for the disease.

Currently, only one pharmaceutical option exists to manage the disease, highlighting the need for more targeted drug development, especially in cases like pregnancy or other medical complications. Collaborating with AIIMS-Delhi, the tribal affairs ministry will drive this effort, including establishing a Centre for Tribal Health and Research Institute to provide top-tier medical care and develop a postgraduate course in tribal medicine.

(With inputs from agencies.)