A 2024 study found that people living near river drains face a high risk of cancer, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The study observed several hazard quotients exceeding the threshold limit, Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
Toxic Metals Exceed Safe Limits
As reported by theprint, the research revealed that lead, iron, and aluminium levels surpassed the safe limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). These findings highlight serious environmental and health concerns for communities residing near contaminated water sources.
Strengthening Cancer Treatment Infrastructure
To enhance cancer care, the government has approved 19 State Cancer Institutes (SCIs) and 20 Tertiary Care Cancer Centres (TCCCs). Additionally, two major institutes—the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, Haryana, and the second campus of the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata—have been established to provide advanced treatment facilities.
Furthermore, cancer treatment services have been approved for all 22 new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) across the country.
Cancer Treatment Under PMJAY
Cancer treatment is covered under the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), which offers financial support of up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care. The scheme benefits around 55 crore individuals from 12.37 crore economically weaker families. Recently, the government expanded PMJAY coverage to include all individuals aged 70 and above, irrespective of income.
The scheme includes over 200 healthcare packages covering more than 500 procedures related to medical, surgical, radiation oncology, and palliative care.
Affordable Medicines and Cancer Care Initiatives
To make essential medicines accessible, the Centre launched the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). As of February 28, 2025, the initiative has set up 15,057 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) nationwide. These outlets provide 2,047 types of generic medicines and 300 surgical devices at reduced prices, including 87 medicines specifically for cancer treatment.
The Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) initiative also aims to make treatment more affordable. By January 31, 2025, 222 AMRIT Pharmacies were operational across 29 States and Union Territories. They offered over 6,500 medicines at discounts of up to 50%.
National Efforts to Combat Cancer and Other NCDs
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) is actively addressing cancer and other major non-communicable diseases. The program focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure and training personnel. It also promotes awareness and ensures early diagnosis and treatment.
Under NP-NCD, the government has established 770 District NCD Clinics and 372 District Day Care Centres. Additionally, 6,410 NCD Clinics have been set up at Community Health Centres across the country.
Emphasizing Cancer Prevention
As reported by TOI, the government is strengthening preventive healthcare through Comprehensive Primary Health Care initiatives at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Additionally, under the National Health Mission, financial support is provided to States and Union Territories. This funding supports awareness programs on cancer and other NCDs.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to improving cancer care, increasing affordability, and strengthening preventive measures nationwide.