In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare in the region, NTPC Bongaigaon as a part of Corporate Social Responsibility has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF) to launch a comprehensive cancer care project in Kokrajhar district. This initiative, valued at ₹32.7 lakh, is designed to address the growing cancer burden in Assam by providing last-mile outreach of preventive and diagnostic care to approximately 42,000 people across various villages.
The MoA signing ceremony, held on 27th August 2024, was led by Akhilesh Singh, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon. The MoA was signed by Onkar Nath, AGM (HR), NTPC Bongaigaon on behalf of NTPC Bongaigaon and Dr. Major General J P Prasad, CEO, Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF) on behalf of Assam Cancer Care Foundation.
Speaking at the event, Akhilesh Singh praised the Assam Cancer Care Foundation for their remarkable efforts in cancer detection, treatment, and prevention. He expressed confidence that this project will bring significant benefits to the people of Kokrajhar, providing much-needed healthcare services and support.
The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Subrata Chanda, Head of Cancer Care and Research, Assam Cancer Care Foundation, Dr. Nirmal Singha, Medical Superintendent, Assam Cancer Care Foundation, Asutosh Biswas, GM (Operation), Deepayan Paul, CMO, NTPC Bongaigaon, Roshan Dungdung, DGM (HR), Madhurjya Singha Lahkar, Sr. Manager (HR-Corporate Communication), Smt Aduity Thakuri, Executive (CSR) along with officials from NTPC Team
The cancer care project spearheaded by NTPC Bongaigaon and ACCF for the first time will encompass four Block Primary Health Centers (BPHCs) and approximately 80 Health and Wellness Centers (HCWs) in Kokrajhar District. The project will focus on several key areas, including the early detection of cancer, particularly oral, breast, and cervical cancers, through door-to-door preliminary screenings conducted by ASHAs. The initiative also includes awareness and sensitization sessions aimed at healthcare workers and the general public to educate them about cancer, its risk factors, and the availability of government schemes. Additionally, home-based palliative care will be provided to cancer patients, ensuring that they receive the necessary support within the comfort of their homes.
A vital aspect of the project is ensuring that confirmed cancer patients are linked to existing government schemes, providing them access to cashless treatment and reimbursement facilities. This approach is designed to significantly reduce the financial burden on patients and their families, easing the strain of out-of-pocket expenses. Moreover, the project will strengthen the public healthcare system by extending the reach of government healthcare schemes to the most remote areas, ensuring that all patients receive the care they need.
This collaboration marks a major milestone in NTPC Bongaigaon’s CSR initiatives, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
The project is aligned with the Schedule VII, Sub-section (i) of the Companies Act 2013, and the CPSE common theme for 2024-25, “Health & Nutrition,” as prescribed by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE). It also contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
