Gujarat provides free cancer care to 2 lakh patients under PMJAY-MA
Gujarat has emerged as a leader in public healthcare by providing free cancer treatment to over 2 lakh patients under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana Mukhyamantri Amrutum (PMJAY-MA) schemes over the past six years. On the occasion of World Cancer Day, the state government highlighted the remarkable progress made in ensuring affordable medical care for its citizens. In addition to cancer treatment, the government has pre-approved ₹2,855 crore in the past six years for heart-related treatments, reinforcing its commitment to improving healthcare accessibility. The initiative has not only alleviated the financial burden on thousands of families but also significantly enhanced the survival rates of patients who would otherwise struggle to afford treatment.
A significant aspect of this initiative is the network of 35 district daycare chemotherapy centres, which have facilitated over 2,03,000 chemotherapy sessions for more than 71,000 cancer patients in the last two years alone. The Gujarat Cancer Research Institute (GCRI), a joint initiative of the Gujarat Government and the Gujarat Cancer Society, has played a critical role in offering world-class treatment. In 2024, GCRI registered 25,956 cancer cases, of which 17,107 were from Gujarat and 8,843 from other states like Madhya Pradesh (4,331 cases), Rajasthan (2,726 cases), and Uttar Pradesh (1,043 cases). Additionally, six international patients sought advanced treatment at the facility. The influx of patients from outside the state and even abroad underscores Gujarat’s growing reputation as a hub for quality cancer care.
From a civic perspective, this initiative addresses a major gap in India’s healthcare system—affordable cancer treatment. Cancer remains one of the most financially draining diseases, with costs for chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries often running into lakhs of rupees. The state government’s decision to provide free treatment has enabled low-income families to access life-saving interventions without being pushed into debt. However, healthcare experts argue that early detection and preventive measures must be strengthened alongside treatment efforts. Public awareness campaigns, regular screenings, and lifestyle interventions can reduce the cancer burden in the long run, ensuring that fewer people require advanced medical care.
From a sustainability angle, the initiative aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which emphasises universal access to healthcare. Free treatment reduces health inequalities and ensures that economic background does not dictate one’s survival chances. Additionally, the development of advanced medical infrastructure in Gujarat contributes to medical tourism, bringing in revenue that can be reinvested into healthcare services. However, experts suggest that alongside free treatment, the government must also focus on reducing environmental carcinogens—such as air pollution, industrial waste, and pesticide-laden food—which are known to increase cancer risk. A holistic approach that integrates medical treatment, prevention, and environmental sustainability is key to further reducing cancer rates in the state.
