Srinagar, June 15, 2026 : In a significant step towards strengthening women’s healthcare and promoting early disease detection, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday inaugurated the Free Breast Cancer Screening Seva Programme at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar.
The initiative has been launched as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in collaboration with India Turns Pink (ITP), with the objective of providing free breast cancer screening, awareness, and counselling services to women at their doorstep.
Focus on Early Detection and Awareness
The programme is designed to enhance awareness about breast cancer and encourage women to undergo timely health screenings, which are critical for early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah commended the Airports Authority of India and India Turns Pink for undertaking an important public health initiative focused on women’s well-being.
He emphasized that early detection and timely medical intervention play a crucial role in reducing breast cancer-related mortality and improving treatment outcomes.
“Awareness, regular screening, and early diagnosis are essential in the fight against breast cancer. Such initiatives can help save lives by ensuring timely medical attention,” the Chief Minister said.
Doorstep Healthcare for Women
Under the programme, free breast cancer screening facilities will be provided directly to women in selected villages across Srinagar district, making healthcare services more accessible, especially for those who may face challenges in visiting hospitals and medical centres.
The initiative aims to cover 10 villages in Srinagar district and provide screening and awareness services to approximately 10,000 women.
The programme includes:
• Free breast cancer screening.
• Health awareness campaigns.
• Medical counselling and guidance.
• Promotion of preventive healthcare practices.
• Encouragement for regular health check-ups.
Strengthening Women’s Health Services
Officials said the initiative is expected to significantly improve awareness about breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of regular screenings among women.
By taking healthcare services directly to communities, the programme seeks to strengthen preventive healthcare mechanisms and reduce delays in diagnosis.
Healthcare experts have consistently highlighted that breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection substantially increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Dignitaries Attend Launch Event
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several senior government officials and healthcare stakeholders, including:
• Sakina Itoo, Minister for Health and Medical Education.
• Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister.
• PA Anandakumar, Founder President of India Turns Pink.
• Representatives of Airports Authority of India and India Turns Pink.
• Senior officers from various departments.
The participants reiterated their commitment to improving women’s healthcare services and promoting awareness-driven health interventions across Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Highlights
• Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the Free Breast Cancer Screening Seva Programme in Srinagar.
• The initiative is a CSR project of Airports Authority of India in collaboration with India Turns Pink.
• Free screening services will be provided to women in selected villages of Srinagar district.
• Around 10,000 women are expected to benefit from the programme.
• The initiative focuses on early detection, awareness, counselling, and preventive healthcare.
• Ten villages in Srinagar district have been identified for the programme.
• Health Minister Sakina Itoo and Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani attended the launch event.
