Sangrur, 22 Aug 2025 : At the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Sangrur, the Punjab Government and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Punjab, officially renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today. This partnership aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services for cancer patients across the state.
In the presence of Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and HBCHRC Punjab Director Dr. Ashish Gulia, the MoU details were signed by Mr. Madho Singh, Director (Administration) of the hospital, and Dr. Anil Kumar, Director of Punjab Health Systems Corporation.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Balbir Singh expressed hope that Punjab would soon become both drug-free and cancer-free. He added that Punjab would emerge as the number one state in healthcare services. However, he acknowledged that in the effort to make the nation self-reliant in food production, Punjab had compromised its water and air quality, leading to deadly diseases such as cancer. Despite these challenges, the people of Punjab are determined to fight against both drugs and cancer.
He also thanked the Tata Trusts for collaborating with the Punjab Government in this initiative. Highlighting the progress in healthcare, Dr. Singh said that earlier people used to travel to other states for treatment, but now Punjab is becoming a hub for healthcare services, attracting patients from across the country.
The Health Minister further announced that on October 2, the government will launch the Chief Minister Health Insurance Scheme, which will provide coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family, including cancer treatment. The government is also focusing on preventive measures for early cancer detection and is set to recruit 1,000 doctors to address shortages in government hospitals.
Dr. Balbir Singh said: “The Punjab Government is fully committed to the health and well-being of its citizens. Our partnership with Tata Memorial Centre is a testimony to this commitment.”
Dr. Ashish Gulia, Director of HBCHRC Punjab, remarked: “Today’s MoU reaffirms our mission to provide comprehensive cancer care. We are grateful to the Punjab Government, Tata Memorial Centre, and the Department of Atomic Energy for their constant support in helping us achieve our mission goals.”
Under the renewed MoU, Tata Memorial Centre will oversee hospital management, operational finances, and public health programs, while the Punjab Government will provide financial support for new medical equipment, infrastructure expansion, and flagship initiatives.
This collaboration marks a milestone in Punjab’s fight against cancer, combining Tata Memorial Centre’s expertise with the state’s financial and policy support. It is expected to create an accessible, high-quality cancer care ecosystem, making treatment more affordable and effective for the people of Punjab.
The event was also attended by dignitaries including Mr. Sandeep Rishi (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Sangrur; Dr. S.D. Banavali, Director of Academics, TMC; and Mr. T. Ambumani, former Chief Administrative Officer, TMC.
Summary :
The Punjab Government and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital renewed their MoU to improve cancer treatment services, aiming for better facilities, research collaboration, and patient support statewide.