President Murmu inaugurates fully equipped Dr. Sampat Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Karnataka

- ADVERTISEMENT -

A much needed state-of the-art cancer treatment hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka, was inaugurated January 3, 2025, by India’s President, Droupadi Murmu. Newly built with funds donated by Dr. Sampat Shivangi and other donors in the US, the 300-bed hospital will be fitted with the latest technological equipment for cancer treatment.

The inauguration was attended by political, educational and community leaders, healthcare professionals, physicians, academicians, ministers, medical students and more, according to a unn.com report.

Also present at the event were Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development Sharan Prakash Patil; Minister for Public Works Satish Jarkiholi; Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar; MLA Asif (Raju) Sait; MLA Abhay Patil; MLA Mahantesh Koujalgi; KLE Society President and society members, teachers, staff and students.

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Addressing the gathering, Murmu spoke about the rise of cancer incidence in India which she ascribed to lifestyle, substance abuse, stress and more. She said it was equally important to address the psychological issues of cancer while addressing the physical issues.

Pointing to the lack of information and awareness about cancer in common people, Murmu urged medical professionals and social and community organizations to focus on spreading awareness about the disease and prevention. In this regard, she mentioned and praised the educational institutions of KLE Society which focuses on education, research and healthcare at their centers in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa and New Delhi.

Speaking at the inauguration, Shivangi said the cancer hospital was “a dream come true”, and thanked the Karnataka State Government for believing in his vision and providing support to make it a reality. “Together, let us bring hope and healing to countless lives,” Shivangi said.

KLE Society Chair, Dr. Prabhakar Kore, said the hospital will also provide early detection and prevention services, rehabilitation facilities, palliative care, cancer education and research.

The fully equipped hospital will provide cancer cure and care to people of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa and Telangana, Kore said.

India’s Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution as well as of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi also commended the work done by KLE Society in education and healthcare.

Shivangi Foundation supports many charitable institutions which serve the underprivileged in India including primary and middle schools, community halls, and healthcare facilities.

Shivangi has helped establish a Hindu temple in Jackson, Mississippi which has become a cultural and social community center.

Shivangi Foundation, set up many years ago, aims to provide equal opportunities in quality education to all, raise mental health awareness, promote healthcare equity, support tribal communities, empower women and promote sports.

Shivangi is the first Indian American to serve on the Board of the Mississippi State Department of Mental Health and is a leading advocate for mental health. He also serves on the National Board of Directors for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

He has received many awards in recognition of his contribution, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, The US Congressional Recognition Award, and the Ellis Medal of Honor Award.