Rotary Club District 3011 Launches ‘Gulabi Pankh’ Initiative to Combat Breast Cancer Awareness Crisis Among Rural Women

Over 80% of Rural Women in India Unaware of Breast Cancer Symptoms; Rotary Club Takes the Lead in Driving Early Detection and Prevention

Faridabad, February 22, 2025 – Taking a decisive step toward addressing the alarming lack of breast cancer awareness in rural India, Rotary International District 3011 today launched ‘Gulabi Pankh,’ a large-scale initiative dedicated to educating and empowering women in underserved communities. The campaign focuses on breast cancer screenings, awareness sessions, and self-examination training, ensuring life-saving interventions reach those who need them the most.

A study published in the Indian Journal of Cancer recently revealed that over 80% of rural women in India are unaware of breast cancer symptoms, and fewer than 6% practice breast self-examination. As breast cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian women, early detection can increase survival rates by up to 90%. Recognizing this urgent need, Rotary Club District 3011 is mobilizing medical professionals, volunteers, and community leaders to ensure that rural women gain critical knowledge and access to screenings.

The official launch event featured expert panel discussions, live demonstrations of breast self-examinations, and interactive awareness sessions designed to educate women about early detection, risk factors, and treatment options. In addition, free breast cancer screenings were conducted, ensuring that women from economically weaker backgrounds receive timely diagnosis and medical intervention.

Speaking at the event, DG Dr. Mahesh Trikha, Rotary Club District 3011, highlighted the campaign’s mission and its far-reaching impact: “Breast cancer is a silent killer in rural India, where awareness levels remain alarmingly low. With ‘Gulabi Pankh,’ Rotary is taking proactive action to empower women with knowledge, access to early detection, and critical medical resources. This initiative is not just about health screenings; it is about creating a movement where every woman feels equipped to take charge of her health. We are proud to spearhead this effort and invite partners from all sectors to support this life-saving cause.”

Dr. Savita Chopra, Distt Chair, Breast Cancer Prevention, Rotary Club District 3011, further emphasized the role of community-driven collaboration in fighting breast cancer, “At Rotary, we believe that real change happens at the grassroots level. ‘Gulabi Pankh’ is about reaching women in remote areas, dispelling myths, and ensuring they understand the importance of self-examinations and regular screenings. With our network of volunteers and the support of healthcare institutions, we aim to make early detection a reality for thousands of women. This campaign is a call to action—together, we can make a lasting difference.”

Recognizing the initiative’s impact, Swami Nijamritananda Puri, Administrative Director, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad (where the event was held), congratulated Rotary Club District 3011 on its leadership, “We commend the Rotary Club for taking ownership of such a crucial initiative. ‘Gulabi Pankh’ is a shining example of what community-driven action can achieve in bridging healthcare disparities. Amrita Hospital is honored to support this mission by providing medical expertise and screenings, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the fight against breast cancer.”

With breast cancer cases on the rise, ‘Gulabi Pankh’ is calling upon corporate sponsors, philanthropic organizations, and individuals to unite in this fight. Contributions will help fund screenings, awareness programs, and treatments for women in need.

How to Get Involved?

• Sponsor a Screening: Corporates and individuals can sponsor free screenings for rural women, ensuring early detection and timely medical intervention.
• Volunteer for Awareness Drives: Healthcare professionals and community workers can join the movement to educate women on breast cancer symptoms and self-examinations.
• Spread the Word: Sharing information about ‘Gulabi Pankh’ on social media can help amplify its reach and impact.

As the campaign gains momentum, Rotary Club District 3011 is setting a new benchmark in breast cancer awareness and prevention across India. The initiative is already making an impact in some of the most underserved areas, proving that when medical expertise and grassroots efforts come together, lives can be saved.

Join us in this mission—your support today can make all the difference.