Deputy Commissioner Leads Public Appeal to Save 24-Month-Old Aarav Fighting a Rare Genetic Disorder

Ludhiana, July 31, 2026: Deputy Commissioner Ludhiana and President, Indian Red Cross Society, Ludhiana District Branch, Himanshu Jain, has appealed to the people of Ludhiana, Punjab and the country at large to come forward and support Master Aarav Thakur, a 23-month-old child battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type II, a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder.
To facilitate transparent public contributions, the Indian Red Cross Society, Ludhiana has launched an online fundraising campaign through the CityNeeds platform. The campaign aims to raise funds for Zolgensma (Onasemnogene Abeparvovec), a one-time gene therapy recommended by the Advanced Pediatrics Centre, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
As per the medical advice issued by PGIMER, the treatment is expected to cost approximately ₹9 crore. Since the therapy is time-sensitive, Aarav requires urgent treatment to improve his chances of survival and quality of life.
So far, more than ₹65 lakh has already been raised through another crowdfunding platform, while citizens of Ludhiana contributed over ₹2 lakh on the very first day of the Indian Red Cross Society's fundraising campaign through CityNeeds. In addition, the family has also applied under the relevant Government of India welfare schemes, including assistance available for patients suffering from rare diseases. However, a substantial funding gap still remains, making timely public support crucial.
Appealing to individuals, families, corporate organisations, industries, educational institutions, NGOs, Resident Welfare Associations, social organisations and philanthropists, the Deputy Commissioner said that every contribution, irrespective of its size, brings Aarav one step closer to receiving the treatment he urgently needs.
He expressed confidence that Ludhiana, known for its spirit of compassion and generosity, will once again unite to support a child in need.
The Indian Red Cross Society informed that CityNeeds Innovations Pvt. Ltd. is providing its technology platform without charging any fee except online payment gateway charges, as per banking norms.
Donations received through the campaign will be credited directly to the designated bank account of the Indian Red Cross Society, Ludhiana, ensuring complete transparency and accountability.
The Indian Red Cross Society also appealed to the public to share the campaign extensively across social media and encourage friends, family members, institutions and organisations to participate in this humanitarian initiative.
Every donation matters. Every share creates hope. Together, we can give Aarav the gift of life.