India provides 42 affordable cancer drugs out of 90 available: Health Minister

"We are increasing (the number of) cancer hospitals and tertiary care facilities. Our approach towards the health sector is holistic. We have increased (the number of) MBBS and post-graduate medical seats and colleges, and created medical educational resources. The Ayushman Bharat health infrastructure mission is working towards it. We launched the pharma policy on Tuesday. We are the pharmacy of the world in generic medicines," Mandaviya said.

Health can never be a political subject nor commercial, he said, adding that it is "seva" (service) for India.

"With time, the pattern of diseases changes. It is important to have a holistic approach towards the sector. Health can never be a political subject. We merged health with development from 2014. Not as a token, but a total gesture. Instead of just opening dispensaries, we focused on making health services accessible to all," the minister said.

The minister expressed the importance of "Sanjeevani" in raising awareness about the growing cancer epidemic and addressing the fears associated with the disease. Mandaviya also invited public participation and ideas, highlighting the government's commitment to stakeholder consultation in shaping India's healthcare model.

Mandaviya acknowledged the significant role played by the country's 1 million "ASHA behen," each responsible for serving a population of 1,000 and collecting vital healthcare information through family visits.