Agartala, June 13, 2025: Over the past seven years, Tripura has witnessed remarkable advancements in the healthcare sector. In a significant step forward, a state-of-the-art Cancer Care Centre was inaugurated today at ILS Hospital, Agartala, by Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha. The facility has been established in collaboration with the International Oncology Cancer Institute.
Speaking at the event held at the ILS Hospital auditorium, the Chief Minister announced that a 100-bed Regional Tertiary Eye Hospital will soon be set up in Agartala, with provisions already made in the state budget for the same.
Highlighting the growing burden of cancer, Dr. Saha stressed that while cancer remains a deadly disease, early diagnosis and timely treatment have made it increasingly manageable. He emphasized the importance of public awareness in cancer prevention and urged people to avoid tobacco, smoking, and addictive substances—known causes of the disease.
The Chief Minister revealed that a large number of applications received under the ‘Mukhyamantri Samipeshu’ programme are for medical aid, especially from cancer patients seeking treatment outside the state, particularly in Mumbai. In this regard, the state government has identified a location in Mumbai to provide accommodation for patients and their attendants. He added that with the establishment of the new Cancer Care Centre at ILS Hospital through private initiative, cancer treatment facilities within the state will be significantly strengthened.
Dr. Saha also highlighted the role of ILS Hospital in not only enhancing healthcare services but also providing employment opportunities for local youth. He acknowledged the contributions of the government-run Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Centre (ABVRCC), which has received substantial support from the Central Government since 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The centre was equipped with advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools such as PET scan, MRI, and CT scan with a total investment of ₹55 crore. The facility also provides radiotherapy services.
The Chief Minister mentioned that ABVRCC now offers nine specialized services, including Radiation Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Medical Oncology, Pediatric Oncology, and Palliative Care. Around 400 students in the state are currently pursuing MBBS, contributing to the growing healthcare ecosystem.
He further informed that a four-member team of doctors led by AIIMS Director Prof. (Dr.) M. Srinivas recently visited the state. Based on their recommendations, the state is working towards establishing a Hospital Management Department. He also noted that two successful kidney transplants have been conducted at AGMC and GBP Hospital, and plans are underway for liver transplants as well. Investors from outside the state have shown keen interest in investing in Tripura’s healthcare sector.
The inaugural event also featured speeches from ILS Hospital Founder and Managing Director Dr. Om Tantia, International Oncology Cancer Institute Founder Dr. Madhur Garg, and Executive Director Dr. Pramod Kumar Sharma, who delivered the vote of thanks.
