**Agartala, June 24:** Tripura is set to achieve a major milestone in healthcare with the planned establishment of a **Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Unit** at the **Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Centre (ABVRCC)** in Agartala. The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen the state’s cancer treatment infrastructure and reduce the need for patients to travel outside Tripura for advanced medical procedures.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday by **Health Secretary Kiran Gitte**, who visited the Regional Cancer Centre along with senior officials to review ongoing healthcare facilities and preparedness for future expansion. The inspection was conducted following directives from **Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha**, who has emphasized the need to enhance specialized healthcare services within the state.
During the visit, Gitte inspected laboratories, medical equipment, diagnostic facilities, and other essential services at the cancer centre. He stressed the importance of maintaining high operational standards and ensuring that medical equipment remains functional through timely servicing and repairs under manufacturer maintenance contracts.
“The government is committed to making the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit operational at the earliest. This facility will be a game-changer for cancer patients requiring advanced treatment,” Gitte said.
In another significant announcement, the Health Secretary revealed that **Intensive Care Unit (ICU) services** will soon be introduced at the Regional Cancer Centre. The addition of ICU facilities is expected to improve the institution’s capacity to manage critically ill patients and provide comprehensive cancer care under one roof.
Highlighting recent developments, Gitte noted that the state government has already expanded cancer treatment services by introducing **day-care facilities in three districts**, enabling patients to receive treatment closer to their homes. He added that specialists from the Regional Cancer Centre will provide training to district-level healthcare professionals to strengthen cancer care services across Tripura.
To improve patient support systems, the government has also developed **night shelter facilities at GB Pant Hospital**, which are expected to become operational soon. These facilities will provide accommodation for patients and their attendants during treatment.
Officials stated that the proposed BMT unit represents a major step toward building a modern and accessible healthcare ecosystem. The initiative reflects the government’s broader vision of creating a comprehensive cancer care network that combines advanced treatment, skilled manpower, improved infrastructure, and patient-centric support services across Tripura.
