Assam to Procure Proton Therapy Machine for Public Cancer Care

Assam is set to become the first state in India to introduce proton therapy for cancer treatment within the public health system. The state government has decided to procure a high-end proton therapy machine at an estimated cost of ₹500 crore, marking a major advancement in specialised oncology care and positioning Assam as an emerging destination for medical tourism in eastern India.

First Government-Led Proton Therapy Initiative

Announcing the decision, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said a tender has already been floated for the procurement. At present, proton therapy facilities in India are available only in the private sector, notably with Tata Memorial Centre and Apollo Hospitals in Chennai. No government-run healthcare institution in the country currently offers this advanced radiotherapy technology, making Assam’s move a national first.

Precision-Based Cancer Treatment Technology

Proton therapy is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that targets tumours with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues. It is especially effective in treating paediatric cancers and tumours located near critical organs such as the brain, spine, and eyes. According to the state government, the introduction of this technology will significantly reduce the need for patients from the Northeast to travel outside the region for advanced cancer care.

Boost to Medical Tourism and Healthcare Infrastructure

The chief minister stated that the investment will integrate into Assam’s broader cancer care grid and open new avenues for medical tourism. Over the past five years, the state has expanded oncology services through new medical colleges and cancer hospitals. The proton therapy facility is expected to attract patients from neighbouring states and countries, reinforcing Assam’s transformation into a regional healthcare hub.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiotherapy using proton beams instead of X-rays.
• It minimises radiation exposure to healthy tissues compared to conventional radiotherapy.
• Currently, proton therapy in India is available only in private hospitals.
• Assam will be the first state to introduce proton therapy in the public health system.

Parallel Infrastructure and Development Push

Alongside healthcare investments, the Assam government is accelerating major infrastructure projects. These include new bridges over the Brahmaputra, an elevated corridor through Kaziranga, and a proposed underwater tunnel with combined road and rail connectivity. The state cabinet has also approved funding for new schools and medical college expansion, underscoring a multi-sector development strategy backed by long-term public investment.