In a significant move towards bolstering healthcare infrastructure, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated a series of healthcare facilities in the state on Saturday.
Assam is a northeastern state in India, situated south of the eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra and Barak River valleys.
It covers an area of 78,438 km2 (30,285 sq mi), making it the second-largest state in northeastern India by area and the most populous.
Emphasizing a vision to position Assam as a hub for medical tourism, Sarma highlighted the aim to serve not only the populace of the North East but also extend services to nations in South East Asia.
Among the key inaugurations was the State Cancer Institute in Guwahati, boasting 350 beds and offering a comprehensive range of medical services including radiation, chemotherapy, surgery (including robotic surgery), nuclear medicine, bone marrow transplant, as well as avenues for academics and research.
The project, with an estimated cost of Rs. 395 crore, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing cancer care infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Sarma revealed plans for an additional seven state cancer institutes slated for completion by 2025 and 2026.
He further announced intentions to introduce Proton Beam Therapy in Assam, a pioneering move aimed at facilitating advanced and targeted cancer treatment within the state.
In addition to cancer care facilities, the Chief Minister also inaugurated an Art Model Blood Centre equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The centre offers a wide array of services including Whole Human Blood I.P., Concentrated Red Blood Corpuscles I.P., Fresh Frozen Plasma, Cryoprecipitated I.P., Platelet Concentrate I.P., Platelet Aphaeresis, Platelet Aphaeresis Leucodepleted, Leucophoresis, Plasmapheresis, Leucodepleted Red Cell Concentrate, and Leucodepleted Random Donor Platelet.
The unveiling of these healthcare facilities underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the healthcare sector in Assam, with an eye towards providing advanced medical services not only to the local population but also to attract patients from neighboring regions and beyond.
The move is expected to not only elevate the standard of healthcare in the state but also contribute significantly to its economic development through medical tourism.
Assam: An Overview
Assam shares borders with Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Bangladesh, and West Bengal. Assamese and Boro are the official languages, while Meitei (Manipuri) is official in Hojai district and the Barak Valley districts, with Bengali also being official in three Barak Valley districts.
Assam, the primary and oldest state in India’s North-East Region, serves as the gateway to the Seven Sister States.
Known for its red river and blue hills, Assam is characterized by three main geographical areas: the Brahmaputra Valley, the Barak Valley, and the Karbi Plateau and North Cachar Hills in between.
It shares borders with Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, and West Bengal, with National Highways connecting to their capital cities. Additionally, Assam shares international borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh and is in close proximity to Myanmar.
Historically, Assam was referred to as Pragjyotisha or Pragjyotishpura, and Kamarupa. The 6th International Tourism Mart commenced in Guwahati on December 5, 2017.
Assam: Home to Cultural Heritage and Natural Wonders
Assam, a state brimming with cultural heritage and natural wonders, beckons tourists with a diverse tapestry of experiences.
From bustling cities like Guwahati, with its riverside charm and Assam State Zoo, to the serene beauty of Majuli, the largest freshwater river island renowned for its Vaishnavite Satras, the state offers something for everyone.
Nature enthusiasts can embark on thrilling wildlife safaris in Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its one-horned rhinoceros, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Manas and Nameri National Parks.
Jorhat, the cultural capital, boasts a treasure trove of Ahom era monuments and the captivating Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary.
Sivasagar, the erstwhile capital of the Ahom kingdom, unveils its rich history through ancient structures like Rang Ghar and Sivadol. Tinsukia, home to Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, the oldest oil refinery in Asia, and Dibrugarh, the tea capital of the world, offer contrasting experiences. While Tinsukia’s tribal communities showcase ecotourism initiatives, Dibrugarh allows you to delve into the world of tea estates.
Hajo, a pilgrimage center for Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism, and Tipam, an ethnic village with historical significance, offer glimpses into the state’s diverse religious tapestry. Don’t miss Bogamati, another tourist destination rich in cultural significance.
Assam’s diverse offerings, from bustling cities and serene islands to captivating wildlife sanctuaries and historical landmarks, promise a great travel experience.
(eTN): India: On The Lap of Brahmaputra, Assam Dreams Medical Tourism | re-post license |Â post content
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