Guwahati:Under the leadership of visionary Chief Minister of Assam Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, a world class facility for fundamental and advanced cancer research is likely to come up at Amingaon, Guwahati for which, land parcel is already earmarked. The centre has been named as South Asia Cancer Research Centre – which is likely to be the single largest cancer research facility in the South Asian region. A workshop was held under the department of Medical Education and Research, Government ofAssam for discussing the contours ofthis project on 10 March 23 in Guwahati.
Experts from various parts of lndia deliberated on roadmap and operational design ofthe project. Dr D Nori – an internationally acclaimed expert, having closely worked with Memorial Sloan Kettering, SA – the top cancer research institution, also physically participated in the discussion. Scientists and faculty from AllMS, SCl, BBCI, llT Guwahati, G[rCH and ACCF hospitals were invited to critically appraise the presentations made by lndian arm of US based consulting organization M/S IQVIA lNC, who have been entrusted to prepare the project report and a roadmap to take the project towards execution. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Siddharth Singh – Commissioner & Secretary, (Medical Education & Research) informed that there would be a series of consultative discussions, which would further precisely define the project design. He further stated that, this would be one of the topmost cancer research centre with an attached Paediatric oncology hospital for child related cancer treatment. A Paediatric cardiology wing also has been envisaged in the project to leverage the high-class infrastructure for Paediatric cardiology & cardiac surgery as well. With ’17 cancertreatment centres in Assam complimented with a research facility, there would be a state-of-the-art cancer research hub that can attract top global talent for engaging in locally relevant oncology research. Given the homogenous habits in the region, this hub has the potential to generate evidence base for better control and management of cancers not only for Assam but, also for neighboring states and countries. This Centre will put Assam as the flagbearer for the Northeastern states on the global map of research hubs. lt will promote collaboration not only for NE lndia but also but, also for the neighboring countries.
