The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, marked World Cancer Day 2026 with a series of awareness-oriented and academic activities, reinforcing its commitment to cancer prevention, early detection, and integrative care through Ayurveda. The programme was organised by the Centre for Integrative Oncology (CIO) and brought together eminent academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and patients in a comprehensive initiative aimed at strengthening public awareness and scientific engagement in cancer care.
The observance began on 3 February 2026 with student-centric activities and culminated in a full-day academic and awareness programme on 4 February 2026.
Student Engagement Kicks Off the Observance
As part of the pre-event activities, AIIA organised a Slogan Competition and an Essay Writing Competition for students. These initiatives were designed to encourage creative expression and to sensitise young minds about the importance of cancer awareness, prevention, and holistic healthcare. The competitions witnessed enthusiastic participation, reflecting growing awareness among students about the social and health impact of cancer.
Morning Session: Patient Sensitisation and Public Awareness
The main programme on 4 February 2026 began with a patient sensitisation and awareness session at the AIIA Hospital premises. The Inaugural Ceremony was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including:
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Prof. (Dr.) Pradeepkumar Prajapati, Director, AIIA, New Delhi
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Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Medical Superintendent, AIIA Hospital
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Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, Dean, FAUM, DU
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Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Yadav, Dean (PG)
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Dr. Pramod Yadav
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Dr. Amrish Dedge
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Dr. Meeta Jhala
The speakers highlighted the growing burden of cancer in India and underlined the importance of Ayurveda-based integrative oncology in prevention, supportive care, and survivorship.
Faculty members, PhD scholars, and postgraduate students conducted patient awareness talks in the hospital OPD, educating patients and attendants about early warning signs of cancer, lifestyle-related risk factors, and the supportive role of Ayurveda in cancer prevention and care.
Afternoon Session: Expert Lectures and Academic Highlights
The afternoon session focused on academic engagement and expert insights. The audience was addressed by Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, and Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Yadav, who reiterated the importance of integrative approaches in modern oncology.
A comprehensive report on CIO’s activities in 2025 was presented by Dr. Amrish Dedge, showcasing the Centre’s work in integrative cancer care, research initiatives, awareness programmes, and patient services.
This was followed by the release of the CIO Information Brochure by the dignitaries, marking an important step in spreading awareness about the Ayurveda-based integrative oncology services available at AIIA.
Guest Lecture on Molecular and Genomic Perspectives of Cancer
A key highlight of the programme was the guest lecture by Dr. Ashok Patel, Associate Professor, Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi. Dr. Patel offered valuable insights into the molecular understanding of cancer, the fundamentals of genomics in cancer research, and the scope of interdisciplinary approaches in oncology research and healthcare.
Dr. Patel was formally felicitated for his contribution, and members of the organising committee and coordinators were also recognised for their efforts in successfully conducting the programme.
Recognition of Student प्रतिभा and Presidential Address
The winners of the Slogan and Essay Competitions were awarded, acknowledging their creative and intellectual contributions to the theme of cancer awareness.
In his Presidential Address, Prof. (Dr.) Pradeepkumar Prajapati, Director, AIIA, emphasised the crucial role of Ayurveda in cancer prevention, lifestyle modification, immunity enhancement, and integrative patient care. He reaffirmed AIIA’s commitment to advancing evidence-based integrative oncology in India.
Conclusion
The World Cancer Day 2026 observance at AIIA concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Pramod Yadav, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, faculty members, students, and participants. The event stood out as a meaningful blend of public awareness, academic discourse, and institutional commitment, reinforcing AIIA’s role in promoting integrative approaches to cancer prevention and care.
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Source: PIB
