Women’s Day rally across India to promote thalassemia screening and cancer awareness

On 8 March 2026, marking International Women’s Day, thousands of women across India will take to the roads as part of the ‘IIFL Drive with Purpose – National Car Rally’, a nationwide initiative dedicated to spreading awareness about thalassemia and cancer, and encouraging communities to prioritise preventive healthcare.Organised by the JITO Ladies Wing, the rally will mobilise participants across 90+ cities in India, with over 50 cars participating in each city. The initiative is expected to become one of the country’s largest synchronised health awareness car rallies and aims to secure a place in the India Book of Records.The campaign strongly emphasises the importance of prevention, early detection, and informed health choices.

In several cities, doctor-led awareness sessions will guide families about thalassemia carrier screening, early signs of cancer, and the importance of regular health check-ups. Select locations will also host health screening initiatives, ensuring that awareness leads to real and meaningful action.Speaking about the rally, Vijay Bhandari, President, JITO Apex, said, “Health awareness is one of the most important responsibilities of a progressive society.

This rally shows how communities can come together to promote prevention, encourage timely medical care, and build a healthier future.”Mahaveer Chaplot, Secretary In-Charge, JITO Ladies Wing, stated that this nationwide rally reflects the strong commitment of women to spread awareness about thalassemia and cancer. He added that the initiative aims to encourage prevention and inspire society towards better health.Sonali Dugar, DIC Apex JLW, added, “When women unite with a purpose, the impact goes far beyond the roads. This rally is about creating awareness, inspiring action, and encouraging communities to take charge of their health.”Sheetal Dugar, National Chairperson – JLW, said, “Creating awareness about thalassemia can help build a thalassemia-free India, while early detection of cancer can save countless lives.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Apex Working Committee members and all Chapter Chairpersons and Chief Secretaries for their dedication and tireless efforts in making this national movement possible.”The initiative is headed by Rachna Kanugo, Project Convener – Health & Nutrition, who has been actively working towards making this rally a landmark awareness campaign.The flagship national event will take place in the North Zone, where the rally will be ceremonially flagged off in the presence of dignitaries, sponsors, and community leaders, symbolising a unified national commitment towards building a healthier and more aware society.

The event is led by North Zone Chairman Raman Jain and North JLW Convener Surbhi Jain.The event will also be attended by Lisa Ray, actor and breast cancer survivor, whose presence underscores the message of strength, awareness and the life-saving importance of early detection.The rally is supported by partners including IIFL Capital, Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, RDB Group, Nahar Group, Baldota Group, Pagariya Group, Haldiram’s, Micro Labs, KLJ Group, JK Tyre, and E-Master, with The Times of India as the Media Partner.With thousands of participants driving across the country, the IIFL Drive with Purpose National Car Rally aims to turn roads into platforms for health awareness and encourage citizens to take proactive steps towards preventive healthcare.Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.