Odisha Earmarks Rs 311 Crore To Strengthen Cancer Care Across State
More than 35,000 chemotherapy cycles have so far been administered through these centres: Mahaling
BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government has earmarked Rs 311 crore to strengthen cancer care infrastructure across the state, with a focus on early detection, expanded treatment facilities and affordable access To cancer services, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said on Tuesday.
Addressing the FICCI ‘OncoPharma 2026’ Roundtable, Mahaling said daycare chemotherapy centres have been established in all 32 districts, enabling cancer patients to receive treatment closer to their homes.
More than 35,000 chemotherapy cycles have so far been administered through these centres, he said.
The minister said the government has also introduced 91 specialised cancer care packages under state health schemes to reduce the financial burden on patients and their families.
Highlighting the importance of prevention and early diagnosis, Mahaling said Odisha is participating in the national HPV vaccination programme targeting young girls. The state’s ‘Sustha Nari, Sasakta Parivar’ initiative has screened more than 1.5 crore women for breast, cervical and oral cancers, he said.
Mahaling called for greater participation of the private sector in expanding advanced cancer screening and diagnostic services, particularly in rural and remote areas.
He urged industries and technology startups to collaborate with the government to improve access to cancer care in underserved regions.
The minister also appealed to major corporate houses in Odisha to use their corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds to adopt districts and support the deployment of mobile cancer screening vans.
FICCI Odisha State Council chairman Jagannath P Nayak stressed the need for equitable access to cancer treatment, sustainable financing and timely diagnosis.
He said coordinated efforts among the government, healthcare professionals, industry and patient advocacy organisations were essential to reducing the financial, emotional and social burden of cancer on families.
Director of Medical Education and Training (DMET) Dr Durga Madhab Satpathy and Drug Controller Mamina Patnaik were also present at the roundtable and shared their views on strengthening cancer care and access to medicines in the state.
