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Key Points

Mizoram is set to build a Rs 700-crore super speciality cancer and research centre in Aizawl, primarily funded by JICA. The state has India's highest cancer incidence, nearly double the national average. Currently, patients are referred outside Mizoram for treatment, increasing financial burdens. The project aims to provide advanced care locally with transparent contractor selection underway.

Key Points: Mizoram CM Lalduhoma Reviews Rs 700-Crore Cancer Centre Plan

  • JICA to fund Rs 560 crore for Mizoram's cancer centre
  • State records double India's average cancer rate
  • Patients currently sent outside for treatment
  • Loan agreement signed with 1.5% interest rate
2 min read

Rs 700-crore super speciality cancer and research centre to come up in Mizoram

Mizoram to get a JICA-funded super speciality cancer centre to tackle the state's high cancer incidence.

"Mizoram has the highest cancer rate in India at 189.7 cases per 100,000 people. – Health Official"

Aizawl, July 30

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting to review progress on the proposed Rs 700-crore super speciality cancer and research centre to be built at Zemabawk in Aizawl, officials said.

A senior health department official said that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Government of India’s External Aided Project (EAP) would provide funds for the Mizoram state super speciality cancer and research centre. Mizoram has the highest incidence of cancer in India, with an alarming 189.7 new cases per 100,000 population annually, compared to the national average of 98.5, the official pointed out.

He said that due to the lack of advanced cancer care facilities within the state, many patients are referred outside Mizoram, including Mumbai, for medical treatment, causing a heavy financial burden on the government and families alike.

According to the health official, cancer types most commonly found in India, in order of number of cases, include breast, stomach, cervix, lung, and oesophagus. While Mizoram's most prevalent cancers are oesophagus, lung, stomach, breast, and cervix, which highlights the urgent need for a dedicated comprehensive cancer care centre within the state, he said.

For the Mizoram State Super Speciality Cancer and Research Centre, Rs 700 crore is estimated, with Rs 560 crore expected to be covered by a JICA loan. The Loan Agreement between the government of India and JICA was signed in February 2023. The loan carries an interest rate of 1.5 per cent and is scheduled for repayment starting in 2033.

Wednesday’s meeting included discussions on transparent and efficient selection of contractors and implementing agencies. A follow-up meeting will be convened soon to finalise these steps. The meeting was attended by T.B.C. Lalvenchhunga, adviser to the Chief Minister, H. Lalengmawia, Commissioner and Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, and other senior health officials.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate this initiative, I hope they also focus on preventive measures and awareness campaigns. The high incidence of oesophagus and lung cancers suggests lifestyle factors like tobacco use might be contributing. Treatment is important, but prevention is better than cure!
A
Arjun K
Rs 700 crore is a huge investment! I just hope the funds are utilized properly without any corruption. The transparency in contractor selection mentioned in the article is reassuring. Northeast states deserve quality healthcare infrastructure like the rest of India.
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Sarah B
As someone who lost a relative to cancer in Mizoram, this news brings tears to my eyes. The struggle to arrange treatment in Mumbai was heartbreaking. This center will be a godsend for so many families. Thank you JICA and Government of India for this initiative.
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Vikram M
The research component is crucial! We need more India-specific cancer studies, especially for types prevalent in the Northeast. Maybe they can collaborate with Tata Memorial or AIIMS for knowledge sharing. Great step for healthcare in the region!
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Kavya N
Hope they also train local doctors and nurses extensively. Building infrastructure is one thing, but we need skilled professionals to run it effectively. Maybe tie-ups with medical colleges for specialized oncology courses?

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