During the launch of "Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer," a collaboration between the Federal Bank Hormis Memorial Foundation, News18 Network, and Tata Trusts, Indian Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that India provides 42 out of 90 cancer medicines at highly affordable rates.

Mandaviya said,

“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.”

Health can never be a political or commercial issue, 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 country belongs to all its citizens and the responsibility for its well-being lies with each individual, he said, adding, “It was this shared responsibility and collective effort that enabled the nation to effectively combat the challenges posed by Covid-19.”

According to him, the primary goal of "Sanjeevani" is to raise awareness, foster discussions about the silent cancer epidemic, and address common fears about the disease.

“The Sanjeevani initiative will lead to discussions and deliberations. Send a note on it to us, so we can track the suggestions coming from people. The (Narendra) Modi government believes in stakeholder consultation. Public partnership is integral to India’s health model. Share your ideas with us, so we can fight the diseases,” the minister said.

Mandaviya recognized the invaluable contribution of India's 10 lakh "Asha behen" (community health workers), each of whom served 1,000 people, in gathering vital health data during family visits.

He laid out the government's cancer-care strategy, emphasizing wellness screenings at district hospitals and fee waivers for the needy. He emphasized the availability of cancer medicines at non-profit prices as a result of India's fixed trade margin, with the goal of improving healthcare affordability and accessibility.