The Assam government has signed a contract with Belgium-based Ion Beam Applications (IBA) to establish a Proton Beam Therapy facility at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Guwahati. This initiative marks a significant advancement in cancer care for the region, aiming to enhance the healthcare infrastructure in Assam and provide local patients with access to cutting-edge treatment options. The facility is expected to reduce the need for patients in the Northeast to travel to other parts of India for advanced cancer therapies.

The Assam Cabinet had previously approved an investment of Rs 600 crore for this project, which is set to become the first proton beam therapy centre in India’s public healthcare sector. This development is anticipated to make a substantial impact on cancer treatment accessibility in the region, particularly for those who may not afford private healthcare services.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the media following the signing ceremony at Lok Sewa Bhawan, expressing pride in the establishment of this facility. He indicated that the installation of the proton therapy machine is expected to occur within the next three years, reinforcing Assam’s commitment to improving cancer care.

Significance of Proton Beam Therapy

Proton beam therapy is regarded as one of the most advanced forms of radiation treatment for cancer, known for its ability to target tumours with high precision while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This technology is particularly beneficial for treating certain types of cancer in children, where preserving healthy tissue is crucial. Until now, this form of treatment has primarily been available in private hospitals in India, often at costs reaching up to Rs 50 lakh.

With the establishment of this facility, the Assam government aims to change the landscape of cancer treatment in the state. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance cancer care, which includes the development of 17 cancer hospitals across Assam, twelve of which are currently operational. The government is also focusing on community outreach programmes and investments in human resources and infrastructure to support cancer care.

Chief Minister Sarma emphasised that the state’s goal is to position Assam as a global hub for cancer treatment. He noted that the government is committed to monitoring and potentially adopting emerging technologies, such as FLASH proton therapy and ion beam treatment, to further enhance treatment options available to patients.

Affordable Cancer Treatment Initiatives

In his statements, Sarma highlighted the importance of making advanced cancer treatments affordable for the general population. He mentioned that many treatments would fall under the Rs 5 lakh health insurance coverage provided through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, aimed at ensuring financial accessibility for patients. This initiative is expected to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with cancer treatment.

Furthermore, Assam is increasingly becoming a destination for medical tourism, attracting patients from neighbouring countries such as Bhutan and Bangladesh, as well as from other regions of the Northeast. This influx of patients is indicative of the growing reputation of Assam’s healthcare facilities, particularly in the field of cancer treatment.

In a recent post on X, Chief Minister Sarma reiterated his pride in signing the memorandum of understanding for the proton beam therapy centre, underscoring the significance of this development for both Assam and India’s public healthcare system. The establishment of this facility is viewed as a major milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance cancer care and treatment accessibility.

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