Kolkata, January 24, 2026:
The Bengal Obstetric & Gynaecological Society (BOGS) successfully inaugurated Health Mela 2026 at Salt Lake, Kolkata, reaffirming its commitment to advancing women’s healthcare through awareness, access, and action.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Mr. José Ramirez Barreto, legendary footballer, along with Guests of Honour Ms. Krishna Chakraborty, Mayor of Bidhannagar, and Ms. Tulshi Sinha Roy, Mayor-in-Council, Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation. The programme was led by Dr. M. M. Samsuzzoha, President of BOGS, alongside Dr. Tulika Jha, Honorary Secretary, BOGS, and Dr. Dibyendu Banerjee, Past President and Chief Advisor, Women’s Health Initiative, BOGS.
Organised as part of BOGS’ ongoing efforts to improve women’s health outcomes, Health Mela 2026 focused on critical issues including violence against women, adolescent health, cancer prevention, and overall wellness. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between health education and access to essential medical services, particularly for women from underprivileged communities.
The Mela featured expert-led discussions, live CPR demonstrations, free health screenings, and a mega HPV vaccination drive. Women received free consultations and diagnostic tests, including haemoglobin estimation for anaemia and thalassemia, mammography for early breast cancer detection, bone mineral densitometry for osteoporosis, and HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening. Of the 2,500 free cervical cancer vaccine doses planned under the initiative, 1,300 doses have already been administered to girls from disadvantaged sections of society.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. M. M. Samsuzzoha, President of BOGS, emphasised the importance of converting awareness into meaningful action. He noted that early detection, timely treatment, and education are crucial in saving women’s lives, especially for those with limited access to healthcare facilities.
Dr. Tulika Jha, Honorary Secretary of BOGS, highlighted the society’s 89-year legacy of service in women’s healthcare and reiterated its commitment to ensuring that women from marginalised communities receive quality preventive and curative care across Kolkata and its districts.
Health Mela 2026 also included interactive activities and community engagement initiatives, making health education accessible and relatable for the general public. The event concluded with a health awareness walk, encouraging participants to adopt healthier lifestyles and take charge of their well-being.
A founding member of FOGSI, BOGS continues to play a vital role in advancing women’s health at both regional and national levels. Through initiatives like Health Mela 2026, the society brings its 2025–26 theme—“Saving Women’s Lives: From Awareness to Action”—to life.
BOGS expressed gratitude to all partners, stakeholders, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and members of the media for their support in making Health Mela 2026 a significant step towards a healthier future for women and girls.
