Chandigarh, August 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
On World Lung Cancer Day, the Punjab Government has reiterated its commitment to providing accessible cancer treatment and strengthening prevention measures, with 708 lung cancer patients receiving cashless treatment worth ₹3.43 crore under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY).
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said no patient should be denied timely lung cancer treatment due to financial difficulties. He said the government’s focus is not only on ensuring free treatment but also on creating awareness, promoting early detection and reducing risk factors linked to the disease.
“With Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, we are ensuring that people receive timely treatment without worrying about expenses. Our responsibility does not end with providing treatment; people must reach hospitals at the right time and financial constraints should never come in the way of quality healthcare,” Dr Balbir Singh said.
According to data shared by the State Health Agency (SHA), Punjab, 413 male patients received cashless lung cancer treatment worth ₹1.89 crore, while 295 women benefited from treatment amounting to ₹1.53 crore.
The highest number of beneficiaries belonged to the 61–75 years age group, with 286 patients receiving treatment worth ₹1.34 crore. This was followed by 247 patients in the 46–60 years category, who received treatment worth ₹1.24 crore.
District-wise, Bathinda recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 179 patients receiving treatment worth ₹1.46 crore, followed by Sangrur with 163 patients and claims worth ₹56.62 lakh, and Faridkot with 149 beneficiaries receiving treatment worth ₹37.85 lakh.
Dr Balbir Singh also highlighted Punjab’s achievement in tobacco control, stating that the state’s lowest tobacco use prevalence in the country, as recognised by NFHS-6, reflects the impact of sustained awareness campaigns and preventive measures.
He urged people to avoid tobacco in all forms and remain alert to warning signs of lung cancer, including persistent cough, chest pain, unexplained weight loss and breathing difficulties.
The Health Minister said the Punjab Government will continue expanding cancer screening, improving access to treatment and ensuring that eligible families benefit from the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana. He added that every approved treatment claim represents support for a patient and protection for a family from major healthcare expenses.
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