The Maharashtra government has set up a Committee to ensure the effective implementation of the Sickle Cell Disease Control Programme. The State government has issued directives for the formation of committees at the State, district, and taluka levels, assigning them the critical tasks of investigating, treating, and preventing sickle cell disease. This initiative is being seen for the first time in history. It is specifically tailored to address the healthcare needs of rural, remote, and tribal areas.<br />''         <br />''Highlighting the pivotal role of the Committee, a state health official said, "Our objective is to deliver quality healthcare services to sickle cell patients, incorporating antenatal screening facilities. The Committee has been tasked with setting standards for the diagnosis of sickle cell disease and providing essential technical assistance, he added.<br />''<br />''The overarching goal is the complete eradication of sickle cell disease from the country by 2047. As part of the National Health Campaign since 2008, the state has undertaken systematic screening, specific diagnosis through HPLC testing, and the provision of free diagnosis, essential treatment, and medications.<br />''<br />''At present sickle cell patients face challenges due to the unavailability of basic medicines, especially in tribal communities like Nandurbar and Gadchiroli. To regulate such irregularities, the State Health Department will submit monthly reports to the Centre.<br />