- Free distribution of Risdiplam, a high-cost life-saving drug for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), is being expanded to all districts in Kerala. - The initiative addresses the severe financial burden on families dealing with rare genetic disorders. - SMA is a debilitating rare genetic neuromuscular disease causing progressive muscle wasting and weakness. - Implementation involves public health infrastructure collaboration to ensure last-mile delivery and localized access. - **National Policy for Rare Diseases:** A central framework launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to tackle rare diseases by promoting indigenous drug development, creating patient registries, and providing financial assistance of up to ₹50 lakh for specialized treatments. - **Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited:** A state-owned corporate entity tasked with centralized procurement, storage, and distribution of quality drugs, medical equipment, and surgical items to government healthcare institutions across the state transparently and efficiently. - **National Health Mission:** A flagship centrally sponsored scheme launched to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to rural and urban populations, strengthening public health infrastructure and supporting decentralised health initiatives. **Introduction** Kerala is expanding the availability of Risdiplam, a crucial medication for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), to all districts, marking a major step in public healthcare support for rare diseases and easing the financial burden on affected families. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - Free distribution of Risdiplam, a high-cost life-saving drug for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), is being expanded to all districts in Kerala. - The initiative addresses the severe financial burden on families dealing with rare genetic disorders. - SMA is a debilitating rare genetic neuromuscular disease causing progressive muscle wasting and weakness. - Implementation involves public health infrastructure collaboration to ensure last-mile delivery and localized access. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **National Policy for Rare Diseases:** A central framework launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to tackle rare diseases by promoting indigenous drug development, creating patient registries, and providing financial assistance of up to ₹50 lakh for specialized treatments. - **Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited:** A state-owned corporate entity tasked with centralized procurement, storage, and distribution of quality drugs, medical equipment, and surgical items to government healthcare institutions across the state transparently and efficiently. - **National Health Mission:** A flagship centrally sponsored scheme launched to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to rural and urban populations, strengthening public health infrastructure and supporting decentralised health initiatives.