Andhra Pradesh, Telangana unite to fund Rs 16 crore jab for baby with rare disorder; 500-km bicycle ride in support
Times of India
by VENU LANKAFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, residents of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have rallied together to support 11-month-old Jampala Mangala Punarvika, who is battling spinal muscular atrophy (SMA type-1), a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder. The costly gene therapy treatment required for her recovery amounts to nearly Rs 16 crore, an expense far beyond her family's means. Despite the daunting challenge, Punarvika's parents, J Suresh Kumar and his wife, have remained resolute in their quest for help, launching a statewide fundraising campaign and seeking government assistance.
The hashtag #SavePunarvika quickly gained traction online, sparking a wave of solidarity across both states. Youth
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026