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

Urvashi Prasad, a director at NITI Aayog, recently celebrated her birthday by sharing a heartfelt post on X, where she opened up about her experience living with stage four cancer. Her message highlighted the importance of resilience and bravery among cancer survivors, drawing from her own 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, along with three photos.

In one of the photos, Prasad is seen smiling at the camera while holding a bouquet. Another photo shows her blowing out candles on her birthday cake. The third photo features her holding what looks like a cigar, but she clarified, “This is a chocolate cigar, not an actual one! Would never endorse a cigar as a public health professional.”

The post quickly gained attention, with many people leaving 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.”

Another comment read, “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.”

According to Prasad’s LinkedIn profile, she completed her B.Sc. Hons in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from the University of Birmingham. She then earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, and an MPhil in Bioscience Enterprise from the University of Cambridge.

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