Kottayam: Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar said Malayala Manorama's Hridayapoorvam Heart Care Project was more than a medical mission "...it is a journey of compassion and humanity."  

After formally inaugurating the project at the KC Mammen Mappillai Hall on Monday, he said it "stands out for its genuine human touch." This year marks 25 years of dedicated service in providing free heart surgeries to people from the underprivileged section of society.

“Hridayapoorvam is more than just a medical mission; it is a journey of compassion and humanity. While anyone can administer medicines, this mission stands out for its genuine human touch,” the Governor said while addressing the gathering. 

He said that more initiatives like Hridayapoorvam should be there. "Medical facilities should reach villages, bringing healthcare directly to people's doorsteps," he added. 

This was his first public event as governor. He began his speech by addressing the gathering in Malayalam. 

Earlier in the day, Kerala Health Minister Veena George highlighted the growing concern about cardiovascular diseases. "Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. The treatment remains a complex medical process and is often unaffordable for the common man," she said.

"Lifestyle diseases pose a significant challenge in Kerala today. According to test results, 38 per cent of Keralites suffer from hypertension. Strategic and scientific interventions are needed to tackle this issue, and Hridayapoorvam serves as an important platform for such interventions," she added.

To commemorate the milestone, the day's programme featured Dr Tessy Thomas, the 'Missile Woman of India' and Vice Chancellor of Noorul Islam University.
Dr Ajit Mullassery, Chairman and Head of Cardiology at Madras Medical Mission, released a special postal cover titled 'Hridayapoorvam @25'. The celebrations will continue with a cultural evening and exhibitions showcasing memorable moments from the heart check-up camps.