New Delhi, Feb 14 || In a major step to strengthen cancer care in India, the government has announced the setting up of Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) in district hospitals across the country over the next three years, according to the official statement.
The decision was announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, with 200 centres planned to be established during 2025-26 itself.
The move aims to bring chemotherapy services closer to patients’ homes and reduce the pressure on big tertiary hospitals.
Cancer treatment usually requires multiple hospital visits over several months. Patients must undergo regular chemotherapy cycles and follow-ups for effective results.
For many people, especially those living in rural areas or from economically weaker sections, travelling frequently to city-based tertiary hospitals is both physically exhausting and financially stressful.
Costs related to travel, stay, food and loss of daily wages add to the burden. Patients undergoing chemotherapy are often weak and need a caregiver to accompany them, which further increases expenses and income loss for families.