In a powerful address at Nagpur’s National Cancer Institute on Saturday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis warned that the dramatic increase in cancer incidences over the last 10 years has turned it into a healthcare crisis demanding urgent, multifaceted action.
Inaugurating the international ‘Oncology Beyond Borders’ summit, Fadnavis advocated shifting focus from mere treatment to robust prevention strategies and swift diagnostic tools. ‘Cancer doesn’t respect boundaries or economic divides; it’s our shared duty to collaborate beyond limits,’ he remarked.
Despite India’s healthcare advancements, the CM noted cancer’s persistent threat on global stages. He lauded the summit as a vital platform for cross-border partnerships, enabling knowledge sharing and cutting-edge innovations in oncology.
Highlighting institutional excellence, Fadnavis commended the National Cancer Institute for its advanced care that attracts international patients. Locally, Maharashtra’s Maha Cancer Foundation is pioneering a comprehensive network via the hub-and-spoke system, democratizing access to superior cancer treatment.
The leader called for aggressive investment in research, leveraging AI, biotech, and medical tech to revolutionize detection and therapy. Improving survival through early intervention, he said, is key to alleviating cancer’s heavy toll on societies.
As discussions unfold over the next days, Fadnavis’ vision sets a proactive tone, inspiring stakeholders to unite for a cancer-free future through prevention, technology, and global solidarity.