Nara Lokesh Stands by Little Punarvika: An Emotional Humanitarian Story

A few months ago, the social media and media landscape was filled with the widespread movement “Save Punarvika.. Let’s protect Punarvika,” which touched millions of hearts across the country. Thousands of people came forward to extend financial help, while many others offered prayers and emotional support. As donations steadily poured in for the child’s treatment, it was during a critical stage when an additional ₹6 crore was still required that Minister for IT and Education Nara Lokesh stepped in and extended a helping hand. He assured the family that he would mobilize the required funds and stand firmly by them in every way, giving renewed hope to Punarvika’s parents. Taking full responsibility like an elder brother, he played a crucial role in arranging a life-saving gene therapy injection worth ₹16 crore from abroad and ensuring it reached Hyderabad for treatment.

At Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, the injection called Zolgensma was successfully administered to the child in the presence of medical experts. The Minister was personally present during the procedure, interacted with doctors to understand the treatment process and gently comforted the crying child. Doctors confirmed that Punarvika, who is suffering from the rare Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA Type-1), could survive only through this critical one-time gene therapy. Despite financial challenges, donations and strong social media support helped raise funds, while Minister Lokesh continuously monitored the entire process. Following the successful treatment, the child’s condition showed improvement, and the family, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed deep gratitude. They described it as a true rebirth for their child and said they would forever remember Lokesh’s humanitarian support.