The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has reached a significant milestone in advancing women’s health, with more than 10.18 crore women aged 30 years and above screened for cervical cancer nationwide. This achievement is part of the government's ongoing population-based initiative for the screening, prevention, and management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM) through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).
Targeting women between 30 to 65 years, the screening process is primarily conducted using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) at Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres within the AAM network. Trained health workers perform the VIA test, and individuals who test positive are referred to higher-level healthcare facilities for further diagnostic evaluation.
At the community level, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) play a pivotal role by identifying individuals at risk using the Community Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC). They facilitate regular health check-ups and screenings, while also raising awareness about the importance of early detection and healthy living.
Preventive efforts are reinforced through wellness activities and targeted communication campaigns. Observances such as National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day, along with regular use of print, electronic, and social media platforms, help maintain public engagement and education on NCDs, including cervical cancer.
To support these initiatives, States and Union Territories receive dedicated funding under NHM for awareness-generation activities based on their Programme Implementation Plans (PIPs).
In a recent push, the Ministry launched a special NCD Screening Campaign from 20th February to 31st March 2025, aimed at accelerating screening for individuals aged 30 years and above. This focused effort has significantly contributed to the latest achievement.
According to data from the National NCD Portal as of 20th July 2025, over 10.18 crore women—out of an estimated 25.42 crore eligible females aged 30 years and above—have been screened for cervical cancer. This underscores the government’s strong commitment to preventive and comprehensive healthcare delivery through the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs network.