National 31 October 2026
Department of Posts Issues Commemorative Stamps to Promote Breast Cancer Awareness
Why in the News?
Marking International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the **Department of Posts** released two commemorative postage stamps and a set of picture postcards dedicated to **Breast Cancer Awareness** to promote early detection and preventive healthcare.
Key Features / Major Points:
- Dignitaries Present: The stamps were jointly released by Union Health Secretary **Punya Salila Srivastava** and Director General Postal Services **Manisha Sinha**. The technical inputs were supplied by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- Key Health Statistics & Burden:
- Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in India, accounting for over **30% of all new cancer cases** diagnosed in females.
- India reported over 2 lakh new breast cancer cases in 2024, with 1 in every 29 women at risk of developing the disease.
- NP-NCD Achievements:
- Under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), screening for oral, breast, and cervical cancers is integrated into primary care across **1.8 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs**.
- A total of **86.97 crore screenings** have been conducted nationwide for the three cancers, including **22.90 crore screenings specifically for breast cancer**.
Static GK Facts:
- Department of Posts (India Post):
- Established: **October 1, 1854** | Headquarters: **Dak Bhawan, New Delhi**.
- Parent Ministry: **Ministry of Communications**.
- Director General Postal Services: **Manisha Sinha**.
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare:
- Union Minister: **Jagat Prakash Nadda (J. P. Nadda)**.
- Union Health Secretary: **Punya Salila Srivastava**.
- Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
- Observed globally every year from **October 1 to 31** (Symbolized by the **Pink Ribbon**).
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: Which department issued two commemorative postage stamps to mark International Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
A: Department of Posts (India Post)
Q: Who is the current Union Health Secretary of India?
A: Punya Salila Srivastava
Q: Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed globally every year during which month?
A: October (October 1 to 31)
Q: Who is the current Director General of Postal Services in India?
A: Manisha Sinha
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