Karnataka Health Minister assures State Rare Diseases Policy soon

The Organization for Rare Diseases India (ORDI), a national patient advocacy organization committed to addressing challenges faced by people with rare diseases in India, hosted the 11th edition of its flagship annual awareness marathon, Racefor7, on February 22 in Bengaluru.

Karnataka Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao flagged off the Racefor7 in Bengaluru, extending strong support to the Rare Diseases community. Addressing participants, he announced that the Karnataka State Rare Diseases Policy will be released shortly, assuring families that the Government is committed to ensuring that no Rare Disease patient is left out. Racefor7, led by Organization for Rare Diseases India (ORDI), is a nationwide awareness movement advocating for early diagnosis, equitable access to treatment, and sustainable long-term care for individuals living with Rare Diseases. 

The Minister’s assurance marks a significant step forward for Karnataka’s Rare Disease ecosystem and brings renewed hope to patients and caregivers across the State.

The theme for this year’s awareness run, “Run for Rare for Lasting Care,” underscored the collective responsibility of patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public in building a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for the rare disease community.