Guwahati: Assam has entered into an MoU with Belgium-based IBA to acquire a proton beam therapy machine for Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday, October 31.
Proton beam therapy is an advanced form of radiation treatment that uses precisely targeted proton beams to destroy cancer cells while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues. According to the Chief Minister, the technology can be particularly beneficial for suitable patients, including children.
Until now, proton beam therapy has been available only at private hospitals in India, where treatment costs can reach up to Rs 50 lakh, Sarma said. The proposed public-sector facility is aimed at making this specialised treatment more accessible to patients.
The project is part of Assam’s broader efforts to strengthen its cancer care infrastructure. Sarma said 17 cancer hospitals were being developed across the state, of which 12 were already functional.
He also highlighted the government’s community-level outreach programmes and investments in healthcare infrastructure and human resources as part of its wider strategy to improve cancer care.
The proposed proton beam therapy centre is expected to add a specialised treatment facility to Assam’s public healthcare network. The state government has also expressed its ambition to position Assam as a major centre for cancer treatment, attracting patients from across the region and beyond.