India's Ambitious Plan: 200 Day Cancer Care Centers by 2026

The Indian government plans to launch 200 day cancer care centers by 2025-26, providing essential services across districts. Health Minister J P Nadda announced financial and technical support for states to enhance healthcare accessibility, citing the impactful role of Ayushman Bharat and expansion of oncology departments in AIIMS.

The Indian government is set to establish 200 day cancer care centers by the fiscal year 2025-26. Health Minister J P Nadda revealed this during a session in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing the provision of basic healthcare facilities to cancer patients as part of a nationwide initiative.

In a bid to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and affordable, the government is offering technical and financial aid to states. Nadda highlighted a recent Lancet report that praised the Ayushman Bharat program, which ensures cancer treatments commence within 30 days of screening.

The health minister also announced the development of oncology departments in various AIIMS across the country and described the expansive cancer care facilities in Jhajjar AIIMS. An MoU with BHU aims to upgrade its medical college to an AIIMS-like institution, indicating continued commitment to expanding cancer treatment infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)