Maharashtra Government Commits to a ‘Cancer-Free Maharashtra’: Health Minister Prakash Abitkar

Mumbai, Nov 2025 : Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has called for fulfilling the mission of a “Cancer-Free Maharashtra” through the combined efforts of the Public Health Department and Tata Cancer Hospital. The Minister visited Tata Memorial Hospital in Parel, where he inspected various departments and reviewed the advanced cancer-treatment facilities. Present during the visit were Dr. Sudeep Gupta, All India Director of Tata Memorial Centre; Dr. C. S. Pramesh, Director of Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai; Deputy Directors Mr. Shrikande and Mr. Siddhanath Lashkar; and Hospital Superintendent Dr. Vineet Samant.

Minister Abitkar noted that cancer cases have been rising rapidly in recent years. He said that the state’s Public Health Department has been conducting cancer screening and treatment campaigns across Maharashtra. He also appreciated the significant work carried out by Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital toward cancer eradication.

The Minister stated that the Maharashtra Government has increased package rates under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana and has added several new diseases under its coverage. This will greatly benefit cancer patients as well. He urged private hospitals in the state to ensure post-treatment care for cancer patients under the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana.

Under the National Health Mission, and with technical support from Tata Cancer Care Hospitals, 26 day-care centres will soon be established across the state. These facilities will help provide cancer-related services at the district level, especially benefiting patients in rural areas.

During the visit, discussions were held regarding “day-care” technical support and training. Minister Abitkar also invited hospitals empanelled under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana to share any suggestions that could help improve the effectiveness of services.