Cancer continues to be one of the major causes of death worldwide, with millions of new cases reported each year. In 2022, approximately 20 million new cancer cases were recorded, and 9.7 million people died from the disease globally. In India, cancer remains a pressing health concern, with cases projected to rise. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 14 lakh new cases were estimated in 2023.
The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), under ICMR, has been monitoring cancer incidence and trends since 1982, providing essential data for policy decisions. The National Institute of Cancer Prevention & Research (NICPR) plays a role in research and screening guidelines. The government has introduced policies, financial support, and strategic interventions to improve prevention, early detection, and treatment across the country.
Government Initiatives in Cancer Care
The Union Budget 2025-26 reflects the government’s focus on healthcare, with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare allocated Rs. 99,858.56 crore. The government plans to set up Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals within the next three years, with 200 centres planned for 2025-26. To make treatment more accessible, customs duty exemptions have been introduced for 36 life-saving drugs used in cancer and other diseases, with some medicines attracting a concessional customs duty of 5%. Drugs provided under pharmaceutical companies’ patient assistance programs have also been exempted from customs duty.
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) is being implemented under the National Health Mission. The programme focuses on early detection and screening for oral, breast, and cervical cancers. Several district clinics and community health centres provide screenings and related services. Infrastructure is being strengthened through tertiary cancer centres and state cancer institutes.
Efforts to decentralize cancer care have resulted in the establishment of multiple tertiary care centres. There are now 19 State Cancer Institutes and 20 Tertiary Care Cancer Centres across the country. Institutions such as the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, Haryana, and the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata contribute to advancing treatment and research.
Expanding Access to Treatment
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, launched in 2018, provides healthcare coverage to economically weaker sections, ensuring timely treatment for cancer patients. The scheme includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology, reducing financial strain on families. The Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund under the Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi programme provides financial aid of up to Rs. 5 lakh for cancer treatment, with a maximum assistance limit of Rs. 15 lakh. Funds are allocated to 27 regional cancer centres to support underprivileged patients.
The National Cancer Grid (NCG), established in 2012, works to standardize cancer care across the country. The network has expanded to 287 members, including research institutes, hospitals, and advocacy groups. The NCG supports evidence-based treatment and collaborates with Ayushman Bharat to ensure affordability. It has also contributed to digital health initiatives by developing electronic patient records.
Advancements in Cancer Research
India has made progress in cancer research, with recent developments in treatment technology. In 2024, NexCAR19, India’s first indigenous CAR-T cell therapy, was introduced through a collaboration between IIT Bombay, Tata Memorial Centre, and ImmunoACT. This therapy offers a treatment option for blood cancers and aims to make advanced care more accessible.
International collaborations are also shaping cancer research. In 2024, India partnered with the US, Australia, and Japan under the Quad Cancer Moonshot initiative to address cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific region. The initiative focuses on expanding screening and vaccination programs and advancing research.
The Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), a key unit of Tata Memorial Centre, has initiated an expansion plan to enhance cancer research and patient care. This development supports ongoing clinical advancements and new therapeutic approaches.
Raising Awareness and Promoting Prevention
Efforts to educate the public on cancer prevention and early detection are being strengthened. The government has integrated cancer awareness into primary healthcare through community-level programs. Media campaigns across print, electronic, and social platforms promote healthy lifestyles and early detection. National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day serve as opportunities to encourage public participation in health initiatives.
Other initiatives, such as the Eat Right India campaign by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, promote nutritious food choices. The Fit India Movement encourages physical activity, and yoga programs under the Ministry of AYUSH support overall well-being. These initiatives contribute to awareness and prevention efforts.
Building a Stronger Cancer Care System
India’s approach to cancer care involves policy measures, infrastructure development, and financial assistance programs. The government is expanding access to treatment through district-level cancer centres and affordable healthcare schemes. Research efforts, such as indigenous CAR-T cell therapy and global collaborations, are contributing to advanced treatment options. Digital health initiatives and standardized care networks are improving coordination in cancer management.
