For IAS officer Adarsh Surabhi, the battle against diabetes is deeply personal. Appointed as the District Collector of Wanaparthy, Telangana, the 2018 batch officer has launched an ambitious campaign to tackle the disease that he refers to as a “silent killer.” Both of his parents suffer from diabetes, and he has witnessed, firsthand, the toll it can take on a person’s health. His mother had to delay her cataract surgery due to high blood sugar levels, which opened his eyes to the broader, life-altering impact of the disease.
Driven by personal experience, Adarsh launched ‘Mission Madhumeh’ to raise awareness and provide early diagnosis and treatment for diabetes in Wanaparthy. “Diabetes doesn’t announce itself with immediate symptoms, which is why it’s so dangerous,” he told Indian Masterminds. “Many don’t even know they’re suffering from it until they’re already facing complications. For me, this mission isn’t just professional; it’s personal.”
Screening Every Citizen Over 30
Under Adarsh’s direction, Wanaparthy is undertaking a comprehensive screening campaign for diabetes, focusing on citizens aged 30 and above. In a district where resources are limited, the plan is bold and far-reaching, leveraging the strength of ASHA workers who are conducting door-to-door screenings. “Our ASHA workers test people’s blood sugar levels, and if elevated, we arrange for fasting blood sugar tests the next morning,” Adarsh explains. “If both tests indicate high sugar levels, the sample is sent to the government hospital for confirmation.”
This proactive, systematic approach has quickly gained momentum. In just a month, the campaign screened around 10,000 people, uncovering diabetes in approximately 10% of them. To streamline operations, Adarsh’s team has even developed software that tracks screenings and follow-up care, a crucial tool given Wanaparthy’s population of over 2 lakh people. “Our goal is to complete the screenings within two months,” he states confidently.
Tackling the Disease Village by Village
On Fridays, Adarsh personally inspects the screening processes, ensuring the initiative runs smoothly. Recently, in Appayapalli village, a pilot project was launched to test the effectiveness of these screenings. Impressed with the results, Adarsh directed Deputy DMHO Sainath Reddy to expand testing to another hundred villages.
“Diabetes is life-threatening if untreated, and people deserve to know if they’re at risk. We’re not just diagnosing; we’re providing free medications to those who need it,” says Adarsh, determined to see the initiative reach every corner of the district. He also instructed teams to conduct random blood tests before and after meals, implementing an early-morning routine for convenience.
Facing Resistance with Persistence
While the blood test is simple, Adarsh acknowledges that not everyone is receptive. “Most people understand and participate, but some are scared to give samples,” he admits. “However, by explaining the importance of early detection, we’re gradually overcoming this resistance. Our ASHA workers have been trained to reassure them.”
The mission’s scope is as extensive as it is intensive. Specific wards in Wanaparthy Municipality and Anjanagiri Gram Panchayats have been earmarked for digital pilot projects, where residents receive digital health cards that help track diabetes status and provide easier access to medical records.
Ensuring a Secure Future for Sanitation Workers
Alongside his anti-diabetes campaign, Adarsh is equally committed to the well-being of sanitation workers, whom he calls the district’s “backbone.” Recognizing their vulnerability as primary breadwinners without financial safety nets, Adarsh has worked to secure their futures through health camps and insurance.
“For all sanitation workers in rural and urban local bodies, we’ve registered them under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana,” he says. “Now, around 2,700 workers have coverage, giving them a crucial layer of security. Many of these workers have families dependent on them, so this small step makes a huge difference. They don’t have to worry as much about emergencies now.”
A Vision for Healthier Communities
Beyond numbers and metrics, Adarsh’s efforts reflect a holistic vision for a healthier Wanaparthy. “People often take health for granted until it’s compromised,” he notes. “I want to create a district where everyone has access to basic health information and preventive care. I don’t want them to suffer because they lacked awareness or resources.
”Reflecting on his motivations, Adarsh says, “Seeing my parents struggle with diabetes made me realize how vital early detection is. It affects every part of the body, from the eyes to the heart. It’s not just about avoiding sweets; it’s a lifestyle change.” His resolve to create a diabetes-free district comes not just from administrative duty but a personal connection to the cause
