The B.D.M. International Alumni Association, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Calcutta Endeavour, organised WALKATHON 2026, a large-scale community initiative dedicated to Thalassemia and Cervical Cancer awareness, on 1st February 2026.
The walkathon commenced at Ruby General Hospital at 7:00 a.m. and concluded at Hiland Park Mall, drawing enthusiastic participation from over 400 alumni, educators, healthcare professionals, students, parents, Rotarians, and citizens united by a shared commitment to preventive healthcare and social responsibility. The programme formally opened with an inspiring address by Ms Madhumita Sengupta, Principal of B.D.M. International, underscoring the role of educational institutions in nurturing socially conscious and responsible citizens. The event was graced by Dr Ramendu Homchaudhuri, District Governor, RID 3291, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted Rotary’s sustained commitment to community health, awareness, and preventive action.
Medical perspectives were shared by Dr Kunal K. Dutta, CMD, Ruby General Hospital, and Dr Partha Mukherjee, Head of the Department of Cancer, Ruby General Hospital, who emphasised the importance of early detection, preventive screening, and public awareness in combating thalassemia and cervical cancer. Mr S. L. Gupta, CEO of B.D.M. International, also graced the occasion to encourage and motivate the participants.
The dignitaries were felicitated by Mr Subhomoy Samanta, President, Mr. Swapnadeep Ghosh, Joint Secretary, along with the core committee members of the B.D.M. International Alumni Association, and Mr Nabaneet Moitra, President of the Rotary Club of Calcutta Endeavour. The formal flag-off, followed by the release of balloons, marked the commencement of the walk. Comprehensive safety and medical arrangements were ensured throughout the route.
Designated water points were set up at regular intervals, while doctors and nurses, stationed in ambulances, trailed the participants to provide immediate medical assistance, ensuring a safe and well-supported walk for all. Certificates, medals and goodie bags were handed to the participants at the end of the event. The official radio partner of the event was 91.9 Friends FM. Backed by strong institutional support and meticulous planning, Walkathon 2026 stood as a powerful reminder that “When communities unite, change begins.” The initiative reaffirmed the organisers’ continued commitment to public health advocacy, awareness, and social well-being.