Support and help from various cultural associations have helped in free as well as subsidised treatment for cancer patients, V. Shantha, chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute, said on Sunday.
Speaking at the launch of the silver jubilee celebrations of the Confederation of Tamil Nadu Malayalee Associations (CTMA), Dr. Shantha said, “Over 60 per cent of patients get free and highly subsidised treatment.”
She added that Malayali associations had contributed immensely to cancer control, and stressed the need for more contributions, in the form of welfare measures, by associations.
A large number of members of over 25 Malayali associations assembled at Pachaiyappas College ground for the celebratory event, ‘Aavanipoovarangu’, which included an exhibition of traditional art forms, pookkalam , games, literary events and light music.
President of honour of CTMA M.P. Purushothaman said the confederation was taking measures to tackle social problems faced by the members, and preserve the traditions of Kerala.
President of the confederation M.A. Salim said more than 45 lakh members were contributing towards tackling social, cultural and educational issues. Declaring the celebrations open, P. Jacob, managing Editor, The Hindu , thanked the associations for continuing to have The Hindu as a media partner for the event. Hosted by CTMA, the event sought to rekindle the Onam spirit. A number of Malayalis were also honoured for excellence in various fields. People who thronged the grounds also feasted on a variety of culinary delights.
The stage was shared by members of CTMA including general secretary M.K. Soman Mathew, chairman Gokulam Gopalan and event convener N. Muralidharan Nambiar
