By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 23, 2026
Agartala, June 23 (FD) In a major boost to cancer care services in Tripura, the state government is preparing to operationalise a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) unit at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Centre in Agartala, significantly reducing the need for patients to seek advanced treatment outside the state.
Health Secretary Kiran Gitte announced the development on Tuesday after inspecting the cancer centre along with senior officials from the Health Department. The visit was aimed at reviewing on-going infrastructure upgrades, assessing medical facilities, and ensuring the readiness of equipment for expanded services.
Addressing reporters after the inspection, Gitte said the government is moving swiftly to establish the Bone Marrow Transplant ward in accordance with the directives of Chief Minister Manik Saha.
“We were directed by the Chief Minister to operationalise the Bone Marrow Transplant unit at the earliest, and wer are actively working to make the facility functional” he said.
During the review, officials examined laboratories, treatment facilities, and critical medical equipment to ensure proper maintenance and timely servicing under existing manufacturer agreements. Gitte stressed the importance of keeping all equipment fully operational to provide uninterrupted and quality healthcare services.
In another significant development, the Health Secretary announced that Intensive Care Unit (ICU) services will soon be introduced at the Regional Cancer Centre, further strengthening its capacity to handle critical cases. He said the department is addressing minor infrastructural and operational challenges while simultaneously augmenting manpower and technical support.
To decentralise cancer care and make treatment more accessible, the state has already established day-care cancer services in three districts. These facilities enable patients to receive treatment closer to their homes, reducing travel and financial burdens. Specialists from the cancer centre will also visit district hospitals and train local healthcare personnel to enhance service delivery.
Gitte said efforts are underway to further expand the capacity of the Regional Cancer Centre to meet the growing healthcare needs of patients. He also informed that night shelter facilities developed at GB Pant Hospital are nearing completion and are expected to become operational shortly, providing much-needed accommodation support for patients and their attendants.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, Gitte said Tripura is focused on ensuring comprehensive, affordable, and accessible cancer care services for people across the state. FD JK