THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, NOVEMBER 3, 2026

Reinforcing its commitment to community health and women's wellbeing, Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited (VAML) has mobilised over 1,400 people through a series of breast cancer awareness, screening and community engagement initiatives across Jharsuguda, its mining operations and BALCO. Spanning preventive healthcare, specialised medical interventions, survivor support and community participation, the month-long campaign brought together healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, employees and community members to promote early detection, improve access to healthcare services and foster greater awareness of breast health. The initiatives also highlighted the importance of timely medical intervention and collective efforts in building informed, supportive and healthier communities.

Observed globally every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as an important platform to raise awareness about breast health, promote early detection and encourage timely access to medical care. In alignment with this objective, VAML's initiatives focused on taking healthcare services closer to communities through awareness sessions, screening programmes and specialised medical support. The engagements also sought to encourage open conversations around breast cancer, address social stigma and strengthen support systems for women and families affected by the disease.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Kumar, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium, said, "The quality of life within a community is closely linked to its awareness of health and wellbeing. Building that awareness requires consistent engagement, open dialogue and access to the right knowledge at the right time. Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity to encourage these conversations and promote a more proactive approach towards women's health. Through such initiatives, we hope to contribute to more informed, resilient and healthier communities."

In Jharsuguda, VAML partnered with BALCO Medical Centre (BMC) to extend specialised healthcare services to communities through a two-day cancer screening camp. The initiative screened approximately 145 community members, referred around 35 women for mammography and facilitated Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing for over 50 women. Supported by a specialised medical team and mammography facilities, the programme enabled women to access consultations and essential screening services closer to home. It also provided an opportunity to initiate conversations around breast and cervical health, emphasising the importance of preventive screening and timely medical attention.

Extending its outreach to neighbouring communities, Vedanta's mining operations engaged approximately 30 women through a dedicated breast health awareness programme at Bartap Anganwadi Centre. Facilitated by healthcare professionals and supported by employee volunteers, the session focused on women's health and overall wellbeing, encouraging participants to develop a better understanding of preventive healthcare practices and the importance of seeking timely medical guidance. The initiative also reinforced the role of community-level engagement in making health awareness more accessible and meaningful.

At BALCO, the month's engagements highlighted the multiple dimensions of the cancer journey, bringing together awareness, access to advanced medical services, survivor support and community participation. A breast cancer awareness programme organised in association with The Times of India brought together over 50 participants and coincided with the announcement of Total Body Irradiation (TBI) services at BALCO Medical Centre, marking an important step in strengthening specialised cancer care capabilities.

Further underscoring the importance of emotional wellbeing and peer support during and beyond treatment, the Samarth Patient Support Survivor Meet brought together over 100 cancer survivors, celebrating their resilience and providing a platform for shared experiences, encouragement and solidarity. The campaign also extended its focus on women's empowerment and preventive health through a self-defence training programme that engaged around 50 women, alongside a health seminar led by Dr Rajendra Patel, which witnessed participation from more than 30 people.

Taking the message of awareness beyond conventional platforms, the 'Ride for A Cause' Cyclothon mobilised over 1,000 supporters, transforming community participation into a collective expression of solidarity against breast cancer. The month-long series of engagements culminated in a sector-wide webinar titled 'Hope, Strength, Awareness: United Against Breast Cancer', organised by BALCO and BALCO Medical Centre for employees across Vedanta Aluminium. Bringing together experts and employees, the webinar facilitated meaningful conversations around breast health, early detection and preventive care, further strengthening awareness within the organisation.

While each initiative addressed a distinct aspect of breast cancer awareness and support, collectively they reflected Vedanta Aluminium's continued focus on advancing community wellbeing through sustained healthcare outreach and meaningful engagement. By bringing together medical expertise, accessible screening facilities, survivor experiences and employee participation, the programmes sought to create an environment where conversations around women's health are encouraged, preventive care is prioritised and those affected by cancer receive greater understanding and support. Through these collaborative efforts, VAML continues to contribute towards building healthier, more aware and resilient communities.