Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed plans to allocate Rs 550 crore for introducing proton beam therapy at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) to enhance cancer treatment facilities. This initiative aims to establish GMCH as one of the pioneering government hospitals in India offering advanced cancer care. The project is set to revolutionize cancer treatment infrastructure in Assam, reducing the necessity for patients to seek treatment outside the state.
The proposed proton therapy center at GMCH will deliver precise cancer treatment, especially for challenging cases, thus improving accessibility and affordability of advanced healthcare for patients in the Northeast region. The state government’s budget for 2026-27 includes the allocation of Rs 550 crore for setting up this cutting-edge proton therapy facility. Proton therapy is a highly advanced form of radiation treatment known for its targeted approach to cancerous tumors, minimizing harm to healthy tissues and enhancing treatment effectiveness.
Assam’s Chief Minister emphasized that this initiative underscores the government’s dedication to positioning Assam as a prominent healthcare destination in eastern India through investments in modern medical infrastructure and advanced treatment options. The state has already made significant strides in expanding cancer care by establishing specialized cancer hospitals in collaboration with Tata Trusts. The proton therapy project is expected to further elevate Assam’s healthcare capabilities, bringing advanced cancer care closer to patients and alleviating the burden on families who currently travel to major cities for specialized treatment.
The introduction of proton beam therapy is a key highlight of the Assam Budget 2026-27, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bolstering medical infrastructure, enhancing healthcare accessibility, and upgrading public health services across the state.
