Roche India and Punjab Government Launch ‘NeuroSakhi’ Initiative to Strengthen Multiple Sclerosis Care for Women
The programme aims to improve awareness, early diagnosis and treatment access for women living with multiple sclerosis in Punjab, with potential expansion across India
- By PharmaNews Live Desk
- New Delhi
- Mar 12, 2026
Roche Pharma India has partnered with the Government of Punjab to launch NeuroSakhi, an initiative designed to strengthen care pathways and support systems for women living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the state.
Announced on March 11, 2026, the programme aims to improve awareness, facilitate earlier diagnosis and enhance access to treatment for women affected by the complex neurological condition.
The initiative reflects growing recognition that autoimmune neurological disorders such as MS often require specialised care and long-term support systems, particularly for women who are disproportionately affected.
Focus on Awareness, Diagnosis and Treatment Access
NeuroSakhi is designed to strengthen the overall care ecosystem for MS patients by improving disease awareness, enabling early detection and connecting patients with appropriate medical support.
According to the organisers, the programme seeks to enhance care pathways and support structures for women navigating multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord.
The initiative will work with healthcare professionals, patient communities and public health systems to help patients access timely diagnosis and treatment.
Addressing the Unique Needs of Women with MS
Speaking about the initiative, Rajwinder Mehdwan, Managing Director and CEO of Roche Pharma India, highlighted the need to strengthen healthcare support systems for women living with autoimmune diseases.
He noted that “women are often more affected by autoimmune conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, yet their health needs are frequently overlooked.”
Mehdwan added that programmes like NeuroSakhi can help build stronger support structures for women with MS by promoting greater awareness, earlier diagnosis and improved access to treatment.
Medical experts also emphasised the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment in managing the disease.
Dr. Dheeraj Khurana of Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research said that multiple sclerosis is a complex neurological condition that has a strong predilection for women, and early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly influence disease progression and outcomes.
Potential to Expand to Other States
The NeuroSakhi programme will initially be implemented in Punjab over a one-year period, with the possibility of expanding to other states across India depending on outcomes and adoption by healthcare stakeholders.
Experts say initiatives such as these are increasingly important as India seeks to strengthen neurological care infrastructure and improve patient support networks for chronic conditions like MS.
By combining public health partnerships with industry expertise, the initiative aims to improve patient awareness, enhance access to specialised care and build stronger support systems for women living with multiple sclerosis in India.