Is the Centre Committed to Enhancing Cancer Services Across States?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Union government is stepping up its efforts to tackle the rising cancer epidemic in India, announcing significant plans to enhance healthcare services. With a focus on decentralization and community engagement, the launch of Day Care Cancer Centres aims to transform cancer care delivery across states.
Key Takeaways
- Government commitment to enhance cancer services nationwide.
- Establishment of Day Care Cancer Centres in every district.
- Focus on multidisciplinary coordination and early detection.
- Integration of community-level screening with district treatment.
- Sharing of best practices among states for effective cancer care.
New Delhi, Nov 29 (NationPress) With the surge in cancer cases in India, the Union government has reiterated its dedication to bolstering services aimed at combating this devastating illness across various states.
During a two-day national workshop focused on enhancing cancer care and urban health, organized by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare from November 27-28, a national panel comprising cancer specialists and program leaders engaged in discussions regarding strategies to develop an integrated cancer care ecosystem.
The experts advocated for improved multidisciplinary coordination, early detection initiatives, and the expansion of district-level capabilities.
In her keynote address, Punya Salila Srivastava, the Union Health Secretary, emphasized the Government’s priority in reinforcing cancer services throughout the nation.
Srivastava pointed out the announcement in the Union Budget for 2025-26 to establish Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) in every district, aiming to decentralize cancer treatment, alleviate the burden on tertiary centers, and ensure timely chemotherapy and follow-up care.
She also highlighted the necessity of creating a comprehensive continuum of cancer care, starting from community-level screenings to advanced treatment at the district level. Furthermore, she noted that the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD) is pivotal in enhancing access and improving outcomes.
At the workshop's opening session, the Union Health Secretary introduced essential policy documents, including NP-NCD training modules, the FRU Guidelines 2025, and the Operational Guidelines for Enhancing Laboratory Services under the Free Diagnostics Initiative.
The event showcased detailed presentations on DCCC models, standardized treatment workflows for prevalent cancers, digital platforms for monitoring the implementation, viral hepatitis screening integration, and quality assurance mechanisms via NQAS.
States like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh presented exemplary practices in cancer screening, community involvement, and district-level service delivery, providing scalable models for other States/UTs.
According to Srivastava, states and UTs must actively address urban health challenges, given the rapidly expanding urban population and insights gained from the discussions.
The workshop also prioritized the urban health agenda under the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM).
Additional Secretary & Mission Director (NHM), Aradhana Pattnaik, underscored the significance of adopting integrated and city-specific strategies to enhance urban health systems.
Point of View
It is crucial to note that the government's renewed focus on cancer care reflects an urgent need for a coordinated response to a growing public health challenge. The initiatives outlined in recent workshops signify a proactive approach, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and integrated healthcare delivery to improve patient outcomes across the nation.
NationPress
29/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aim of the Day Care Cancer Centres?
The Day Care Cancer Centres aim to decentralize cancer treatment, reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals, and ensure timely access to chemotherapy and follow-up care.
How will the government improve cancer care?
The government plans to enhance multidisciplinary coordination, early detection efforts, and expand district-level capacities to create a robust cancer care ecosystem.
What is the importance of the NP-NCD?
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs is central to improving access to cancer care and enhancing health outcomes for patients.
