Guwahati, 10 June (HS): Assam Health, Family Welfare and Medical Education & Research Minister Ashok Singhal on Wednesday said that stronger partnerships under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can play a vital role in transforming the healthcare sector in Assam and the Northeast. He was speaking at the “Assam CSR Roundtable 2.0” held at Vivanta Hotel in Guwahati.

The programme, organized by the Medical Education and Research Department, focused on exploring new opportunities for innovation, investment and collaboration in healthcare. In his inaugural address, Singhal highlighted the growing burden of cancer in the Northeast and noted that the Assam Cancer Care Foundation, established with the support of the Tata Group, has helped create an extensive cancer treatment network across the state, enabling patients to access world-class care within Assam.

Emphasizing the importance of preventive healthcare, the minister underlined the role of health clubs in schools in promoting awareness from an early age. He reiterated the state government's commitment to developing Assam into one of the country’s most advanced healthcare destinations through modern infrastructure and technology-driven services.

Singhal said that while the government continues to make substantial investments in the health sector, CSR partnerships are essential for accelerating development in key areas. He invited technology firms, medical equipment manufacturers, investors, educational institutions and start-ups to actively contribute to Assam’s healthcare transformation journey.

The minister also interacted with CSR representatives from various organizations and institutions, discussing potential areas of cooperation and support.

Among those present were Medical Education and Research Commissioner-Secretary Dr. Siddharth Singh, CSRA Assam Chief Executive Officer Narendra Shah, National Health Mission Assam Mission Director Dr. Lakshmanan S., Director of Medical Education Dr. Manoj Kumar Choudhury, along with representatives from leading corporate groups, public sector enterprises, healthcare organizations, technology firms and investment agencies from across the country.

The roundtable emphasized building a strong collaborative platform to strengthen healthcare services in the Northeast through innovation, strategic investments and sustainable partnerships.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash