India Strengthens Regional Healthcare Ties by Hosting BIMSTEC Cancer Care Delegation

National Cancer Grid’s Annual Meet Welcomes BIMSTEC Nations to Collaborate on Cancer Research, Policy, and Capacity Building

Fulfilling its commitment made at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, India hosted senior physicians, policymakers, and healthcare experts from BIMSTEC member countries during the Annual Meeting of the National Cancer Grid (NCG) held on August 2–3, 2025, at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai.

This collaborative gathering reflects India’s proactive role in enhancing regional healthcare partnerships through knowledge sharing, medical innovation, and institutional support. The meeting brought together cancer centre directors, researchers, patient advocates, and public health officials from across the region and beyond, highlighting the breadth of the NCG’s work and its relevance to neighboring nations.

The NCG, a pioneering Indian initiative, has been instrumental in unifying cancer treatment protocols, boosting research collaboration, and streamlining patient care standards across India. Through this platform, India now extends its experience and infrastructure to BIMSTEC countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and India—to jointly strengthen capabilities in the field of cancer care.

The event featured knowledge sessions, policy discussions, and joint planning for capacity-building programmes. Experts reviewed progress made in existing initiatives and outlined strategies for future cooperation. Key focus areas included early diagnosis, precision treatment, palliative care, oncology training, and building sustainable public health responses to rising cancer burdens in the region.

This effort is in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of “Neighbourhood First” and further positions India as a regional health partner committed to supporting low- and middle-income countries in South and Southeast Asia.

By opening the doors of the National Cancer Grid to BIMSTEC nations, India is not only fulfilling its summit promise but also creating a framework for meaningful, long-term collaboration in cancer care. The initiative promises to bridge knowledge gaps, develop healthcare leadership in partner countries, and strengthen regional preparedness to combat non-communicable diseases.

Held under the aegis of the Ministry of External Affairs, this event marks a significant step forward in India’s health diplomacy, showcasing how medical expertise can serve as a powerful tool for regional solidarity and sustainable development.