The Punjab government’s efforts to make cancer treatment accessible and advanced have created a new benchmark in public healthcare. By investing in cutting-edge technology, establishing relief schemes, and offering free treatment to thousands of patients, the state has transformed the way serious diseases are managed. These hospitals are not just medical facilities—they have become beacons of hope for millions of families across Punjab.
Accessibility and affordability have been central to this initiative. Through the Chief Minister Punjab Cancer Relief Fund and Ayushman Bharat Yojana, patients can receive treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh at little or no cost. Today, 85 percent of patients at Sangrur and New Chandigarh hospitals benefit from either completely free or highly subsidized care, demonstrating the government’s focus on ensuring that advanced healthcare reaches the common people.
Prevention and awareness are also key pillars of Punjab’s strategy. The new agreement with the Tata Memorial Center, signed on August 21, 2025, includes large-scale cancer screening, anti-tobacco campaigns, training programs for medical staff, and outreach to rural communities. Over 1.7 lakh people have already been screened, earning the hospital recognition on Independence Day 2025. These programs ensure that the fight against cancer goes beyond treatment to education and prevention.
Staffing and operational readiness remain a priority. Although there are some shortages of nurses and technicians, the Punjab government is addressing the issue through new recruitments and partnerships with medical colleges and nursing schools. These efforts are aimed at bringing both hospitals to full operational capacity in the near future.
The introduction of modern surgical techniques has raised the standard of care. Robotic surgeries at the New Chandigarh hospital have made complex operations more precise and efficient, with the first 80 surgeries provided completely free for patients. This step reflects the government’s commitment to bringing world-class medical technology, previously limited to private hospitals, to the public healthcare system.
The Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Center in New Chandigarh exemplifies the Punjab government’s vision. Built on 50 acres of free land with an investment of over ₹510 crore, the hospital features 300 beds, advanced diagnostic facilities, operation theaters, scanning machines, and accommodations for patients. Its partnership with Tata Memorial Center ensures top-quality treatment, technical support, and staffing, while the state provides infrastructure, medicines, and funding. The third MoU signed in August 2025 confirms the long-term commitment to this project and demonstrates the success of strong collaboration between government and private expertise.
This progress is part of a broader transformation across the state. By establishing two modern hospitals in Sangrur and New Chandigarh, cancer patients no longer have to travel to major cities like Delhi or Mumbai for treatment. These initiatives reflect the Punjab government’s foresight, determination, and dedication to public service, turning a vision of high-quality, accessible cancer care into a reality.
