Guwahati
A decentralised cancer care system combined with widespread early detection efforts has enabled Assam to achieve a 62 percent survival rate, the highest in the country, according to State Health Minister Ashok Singhal.
During the Budget session of the Assam Assembly on Tuesday, he noted that the state’s rate significantly exceeds the national average of 40 percent.
The minister described a broad strategy covering early detection, treatment, palliative support, survivorship and research. A decentralised network of cancer hospitals has been established to improve access outside major cities such as Guwahati and Dibrugarh.
These cities host the state’s oldest medical colleges along with private hospitals and specialised centres, including the B. Barooah Cancer Institute.
Twelve of the 17 planned cancer hospitals are now functioning. They include the State Cancer Institute at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, facilities in Barpeta, Dibrugarh, Diphu and Silchar, plus diagnostic and day-care units in several other districts.
Screening has been expanded with a goal of reaching 1.24 crore people. Nearly 47 lakh individuals have been screened, leading to the early identification of more than 900 cancer cases.
The rise in detected cases demonstrates the effectiveness of the screening initiative. Many patients are now diagnosed at stages I or II rather than later stages, improving outcomes.
Assam is expected to become the first state to provide proton therapy within weeks. The Assam Cancer Care Network has recorded substantial activity through May 2026, including over 71,000 new cancer patients and large numbers of consultations, admissions, chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, surgeries and scans. Most care is provided free under government schemes.
Other states, including Bihar, have been advised to study the Assam model.
