Nagaon: The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has announced the State Awards for the year 2026 in recognition of outstanding contributions made in various fields of society. In this list, “Deepshikha Foundation” has been awarded the Silver Medal in recognition of its exemplary humanitarian service (Deepshikha Foundation). The organization, which has stood as a strong support system for financially weak and underprivileged cancer patients, has earned this honor from the neighboring state as well.
According to a notification issued by the Political Department of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the award will be presented by the Governor at a solemn ceremony to be held on 20 February 2026 at Lok Bhavan (formerly Raj Bhavan) in Itanagar. It may be mentioned that these State Awards were announced on the occasions of Independence Day 2025 and Republic Day 2026. At the same ceremony, late whistle-blower Gyamar Padang of Itanagar will be posthumously honored with the Gold Medal.
A Journey Spreading the Light of Hope
At present, cancer is not merely a health issue but also a complex financial and emotional crisis. With the soaring cost of treatment and lack of awareness, many families are left helpless. In such difficult times, Deepshikha Foundation has emerged as a blessing for many.
The journey began in 2004 in Mumbai. Under the leadership of compassionate IAS officer Devashish Sharma—then in charge of Mumbai Assam Bhavan and currently the District Commissioner of Nagaon—the foundation was formed to assist patients who traveled from distant places to Mumbai for treatment. Later, its services were expanded to Assam, and its head office was established in Guwahati. Today, the organization serves as a pillar of hope, especially for poor people from rural and backward areas.
Services and Notable Contributions of Deepshikha Foundation
Deepshikha Foundation supports patients not only in medical treatment but throughout their entire journey. Its services include:
- Awareness and Screening: Organizing awareness camps in rural areas about cancer symptoms and prevention. Free or affordable screening camps are conducted, especially for cervical and breast cancer.
- Accommodation and Food: Providing lodging and food facilities in Guwahati for patients and their guardians coming from outside for treatment. Since 2018, a special accommodation facility for child cancer patients has been operating at Six Mile, Guwahati.
- Financial and Medical Assistance: Supplying medicines to needy families, organizing blood donation camps, and offering financial support for treatment expenses.
- Psychological Support: Offering counseling to patients and their families during difficult phases such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy to help them stay mentally strong.
With the alarming rise in cancer cases across Assam and the entire Northeast region, Deepshikha’s role has become extremely significant. By bringing a “light of hope” into the lives of thousands, this voluntary organization has made a remarkable impact. The recognition bestowed by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh will further encourage social workers and strengthen their commitment to humanitarian service.