Surat – In a significant initiative for women's health, a mega medical camp was organized on International Women's Day at Tulip Healthcare Center on Ghod Dod Road. The event was held under the joint aegis of Keshavi Charitable Trust, Tulip Hospital, and the Nursing Association, aiming to provide free health checkups for various diseases affecting women.
The camp focused on the early detection of serious ailments such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, heart diseases, and eye-related conditions. Free screenings, including mammography, sonography, Pap smear tests, and various other laboratory examinations, were conducted. Additionally, free eyeglasses were distributed to those in need. The camp benefited approximately 251 individuals, including sanitation workers, homemakers, students, senior citizens, and female journalists.
The Nursing Association, marking its 33rd consecutive year of honoring women on Women's Day, also held a special felicitation ceremony. Sanitation workers, homemakers, and 25 female journalists were honored by Police Commissioner Anupamsingh Gehlot, Roma Patel, and Leena Desai, the director of Chalthan Sugar and a renowned educator.
Speaking on the occasion, Police Commissioner Gehlot highlighted the crucial role women play as the foundation of families and emphasized the importance of their health. He acknowledged the contribution of female journalists in shaping society by raising awareness and delivering truthful news, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters. Appreciating the uninterrupted 33-year-long efforts of the medical camp, he commended the organizers for their dedication to women's healthcare.
Dr. Mahendra Singh Chauhan, Dean of Veer Narmad South Gujarat University and New Civil Medical College, stated that the primary objective of such initiatives is to curb the rising incidence of cancer among women and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. He stressed that true celebration of Women's Day lies in caring for women's health, as their well-being directly contributes to a stronger nation. Dr. Chauhan also remarked on India's cultural tradition of honoring daughters, mothers, and women, recognizing them as embodiments of morality, integrity, and leadership.
Social activist Roma Patel, who has played a pivotal role in educating and shaping the lives of numerous underprivileged children living in slums and on footpaths, also addressed the gathering. She emphasized that empowered, well-nourished, and secure women form the backbone of societal, state, and national progress. She extended her best wishes on Women's Day, reiterating that access to early medical diagnosis and treatment through such camps is crucial in preventing serious illnesses.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Nursing Council Vice President Iqbal Kadivala, head nurses from Civil Hospital, Nursing Association members Nilesh Lathiya, Bipin Mekwan, and Viren Patel, former secretary Kiran Domadiya, Tulip Hospital director Dr. Pranav Thakkar, medical professionals, nursing staff, and numerous beneficiaries.
