Odisha Government Intensifies Push for Advanced Cancer Care Facility in Balasore
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has formally requested additional information from the Odisha state government following a direct appeal from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The Chief Minister has written to DAE Secretary Ajit Kumar Mohanty, strongly advocating for the establishment of a Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in the strategically important district of Balasore.
State Government's Proactive Steps and DAE's Response
Chithra Arumugam, the Additional Chief Secretary for Science and Technology, confirmed that her department recently received a communication from the DAE. "The science and technology department has urged the health and family welfare department to examine the proposal in detail and take all necessary further action," Arumugam stated, highlighting the inter-departmental coordination now underway.
This initiative gained momentum last month when Remuna MLA and Deputy Chief Whip Gobinda Chandra Das submitted a formal request to the Chief Minister. Das emphasized the critical need for a 250-bed tertiary cancer hospital equipped with advanced diagnostic and therapeutic facilities. "Such a centre in Balasore would be a tremendous benefit for the people of north Odisha and nearby regions, providing accessible, high-quality care," Das wrote in his appeal.
Addressing a Critical Healthcare Gap in Northern Odisha
In his detailed letter to DAE Secretary Mohanty, Chief Minister Majhi outlined the pressing need. He noted that northern Odisha, encompassing the districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Jajpur, is home to a combined population exceeding 1.1 crore (11 million) people. "These districts currently suffer from a severe lack of access to advanced oncology treatment. This deficiency forces patients and their families to undertake arduous and expensive journeys to Cuttack, Kolkata, or even Mumbai for specialized cancer care," the CM articulated, stressing the humanitarian and logistical crisis.
Strategic Advantages and Existing Infrastructure
The proposal leverages Balasore's significant strategic advantages. The district is situated on National Highway 16 and boasts robust road and rail connectivity. Furthermore, an upcoming airport at Rasgobindpur in Mayurbhanj district will enhance regional accessibility. Balasore already hosts a government medical college and an AIIMS satellite centre, which are positioned to serve as vital support institutions for the proposed regional cancer hub, creating a synergistic healthcare ecosystem.
Substantial State Commitment to the Project
Demonstrating a strong commitment, the Odisha government has offered substantial support to facilitate the project. "The state government is prepared to provide approximately 50 acres of land free of cost, located near Balasore town. This will be accompanied by all necessary support in utilities, core infrastructure development, and expedited statutory clearances for the establishment of this premier institution," Chief Minister Majhi affirmed in his communication.
Alignment with National Cancer Care Vision
The Chief Minister framed the proposal as a strategic move that aligns perfectly with the DAE's national vision. He stated that the proposed centre would greatly strengthen cancer care delivery, cutting-edge research, and specialized medical training across eastern India. The model follows the successful Tata Memorial Centre framework, which the DAE aims to replicate nationwide to expand its network of comprehensive cancer centres.
"In view of the compelling regional need, existing infrastructure, and full state support, the Odisha government strongly recommends the establishment of the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre at Balasore. This should be undertaken under the auspices of the Department of Atomic Energy in collaboration with the Tata Memorial Centre," concluded the Chief Minister's formal recommendation, marking a significant step in the state's healthcare planning.
