Haryana Health Minister Announces Comprehensive Strategy to Eliminate Anaemia and Cancer
In a significant announcement from Chandigarh, Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao declared on Friday that the state government has made the complete elimination of anaemia and cancer its primary health focus. The minister outlined a multi-pronged approach that includes enhanced screening, improved treatment facilities, and substantial financial support for patients.
Enhanced Cancer Screening and Patient Support Initiatives
Expressing deep concern over the rising number of cancer cases in the state, Minister Rao revealed that the government will significantly increase the number of cancer screening tests to ensure early detection. Early diagnosis remains crucial for successful treatment outcomes, and this expanded screening program aims to identify cases at the earliest possible stage.
The minister detailed several patient-centric initiatives already in place. Cancer patients, along with one attendant, now receive free travel facilities in government buses when traveling for treatment. This measure addresses the significant transportation challenges that often prevent patients from accessing timely medical care.
Furthermore, patients suffering from Stage 3 and Stage 4 cancer are receiving direct financial assistance of Rs 3,000 per month. This support helps alleviate the substantial economic burden that cancer treatment places on families across Haryana.
Strengthening Cancer Treatment Infrastructure
To bolster cancer treatment capabilities, the government has established a state-of-the-art 50-bed Atal Cancer Care Centre at the Civil Hospital in Ambala Cantt. This facility represents a significant advancement in Haryana's healthcare infrastructure, equipped with:
- Advanced mammography equipment for breast cancer detection
- CT simulator for precise radiation therapy planning
- Linear accelerator for targeted cancer treatment
This comprehensive cancer care center serves not only Haryana residents but also patients from neighboring states, positioning Haryana as a regional hub for cancer treatment excellence.
Historic Increase in Health Budget Allocation
Minister Rao highlighted a remarkable expansion in health funding under the current administration. The health budget has seen unprecedented growth, increasing from Rs 2,646 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 9,942 crore in 2025-26. This represents an extraordinary increase of approximately 275 percent, demonstrating the government's strong commitment to healthcare improvement.
Addressing Healthcare Workforce Challenges
To combat the shortage of medical professionals, the government has taken decisive action by issuing appointment letters to 746 medical officers and 845 ayurvedic medical officers. Additionally, under the National Health Mission framework, 346 medical officers and 154 specialists are currently providing essential services across the state.
The minister also announced progress in expanding diagnostic capabilities. MRI scan facilities are now available in five districts, with Memorandums of Understanding already signed for Panipat and Kurukshetra. Tenders have been floated for the remaining nine districts, indicating imminent expansion of these critical diagnostic services throughout Haryana.
This comprehensive health strategy represents Haryana's ambitious vision for transforming healthcare delivery, with particular emphasis on combating two of the most challenging health issues facing the state's population.
