NITI Aayog Director Shares Birthday Post Amid Stage 4 Cancer Battle: ‘Here’s to Another Year…’

Urvashi Prasad, a director at NITI Aayog, recently marked her birthday by sharing a heartfelt post on X, detailing her journey with stage four cancer. Her message highlighted the importance of resilience and courage among cancer survivors, reflecting on her personal struggles and victories.

“Living with Stage 4 Cancer, birthdays hold a special significance. Despite stereotypes, I challenge expectations and defy the odds, embracing my journey with grace and courage. Yesterday marked not just my birthday but a celebration of resilience among all Cancer survivors. Here’s to another year of breaking barriers and embracing joy, health, and fulfilment,” Prasad wrote, accompanying her message with three photos.

In one photo, Prasad is seen smiling at the camera while holding a bouquet. Another photo captures the moment she blew out candles on her birthday cake. The third photo shows her holding what appears to be a cigar, but Prasad clarified, “This is a chocolate cigar, not an actual one! Would never endorse a cigar as a public health professional.”

The post quickly gained traction, receiving numerous supportive comments. One user wrote, “Wishing you a wonderful birthday, Urvashi. Happiness for you,” while another added, “Heartiest Congratulations, Madam, for your fortitude, perseverance, and strong determination. Praying Almighty to bless you with a happy life for eternity. Our best wishes.”

A third commented, “Happy Birthday. You are a brave fighter. Stay strong.” A fourth user shared, “I don’t know you, but I know this spirit. My good wishes & prayers for your health & happiness.”

Historical Context

NITI Aayog, or the National Institution for Transforming India, was established in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission. It serves as the premier policy think tank of the Government of India, providing directional and policy inputs. Urvashi Prasad’s role as a director at NITI Aayog places her in a significant position to influence public health policies and initiatives in India.

Prasad’s educational background is impressive. She completed her B.Sc. Hons in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from the University of Birmingham, followed by a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London. She also holds an MPhil in Bioscience Enterprise from the University of Cambridge.

Before joining NITI Aayog in 2016, Prasad began her career as a researcher at the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology in New Delhi in 2006. She then worked as a consultant for Cambridge Enterprise Ltd. in 2008 and was also associated with the World Health Organisation as a consultant.

Summary

• Urvashi Prasad, director at NITI Aayog, shared a birthday post on X, detailing her journey with stage four cancer.
• Her message emphasized resilience and courage among cancer survivors.
• The post included three photos: one with a bouquet, one blowing out birthday candles, and one with a chocolate cigar.
• The post received numerous supportive comments from users.
• Prasad has an impressive educational background and significant professional experience.
• NITI Aayog, established in 2015, is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India.

This article provides an inspiring example of resilience and determination, valuable for students preparing for competitive exams, especially those focusing on public health and policy-making.