SHILLONG: In response to the rising incidence of cancer in the state, the Meghalaya Government has launched an ambitious Meghalaya Cancer Mission, with East Khasi Hills identified as one of the most high-risk districts.
Health Minister Weiladmiki Shylla on Monday outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the initiative, stressing that the state is shifting from a reactive treatment model to a proactive strategy centred on early detection and prevention.
Speaking to reporters, Shylla described the cancer prevalence in East Khasi Hills as “grave,” underlining the urgent need for systematic screening at the grassroots level.
“The East Khasi Hills is at serious risk. To address this, the Cancer Mission has been launched with a strong focus on early detection,” the Minister said.
Under the Mission, specialised screening programmes will be extended to rural and remote areas across Meghalaya, ensuring wider coverage and timely diagnosis. The objective, the Minister said, is to detect cancer early, initiate prompt treatment, and significantly improve survival outcomes.
As part of a major infrastructure push, the Health Minister announced that the government has earmarked substantial funds to establish dedicated cancer wings in Shillong and Tura. These facilities are expected to function as specialised oncology hubs, strengthening diagnostic and treatment capabilities within the state.
The initiative will also be complemented by statewide awareness campaigns focusing on healthy lifestyles and dietary habits, factors often linked to the high cancer burden in Meghalaya.
Responding to allegations regarding non-functional medical equipment at the Civil Hospital in Shillong, Shylla dismissed the claims, stating that recent technological upgrades demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services.
He clarified that a state-of-the-art MRI machine, recently inaugurated at the hospital, is fully functional and operational.
“Technicians who use these machines on a daily basis have reported no technical issues or malfunctions,” he said, adding that vague or unverified allegations should not undermine ongoing improvements.
Addressing comparisons between the Civil Hospital and NEIGRIHMS, the Minister urged the public to recognise the difference in scale and mandate.
While acknowledging NEIGRIHMS as a premier national institution, Shylla maintained that the State Government is making sustained efforts to provide quality, affordable healthcare through district hospitals and state-run facilities.
“The State is giving its best within its capacity to strengthen healthcare delivery for the people,” he said.
