Official urges Jaypee Group to set up cancer treatment facilities

Gokul Butail, Principal Adviser (Innovation, Digital Technologies, and Governance) to the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, recently met Manoj Gaur, Chairman and Managing Director of the Jaypee Group, in New Delhi to discuss key developmental and healthcare issues affecting the state.

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During the meeting, Butail raised important concerns regarding the Vivekananda Medical Research Trust (VMRT) Hospital in Palampur, managed by the Jaypee Health Care Trust.

The hospital, a joint venture between the Himachal Pradesh government and the Jaypee Group, was established on land provided free of cost by the state government, measuring 60 acres.

Butail requested the modernisation of VMRT, which serves as the primary healthcare provider for over seven lakh residents in the Palampur, Joginder Nagar, and Jaisinghpur areas of Kangra district.

Emphasising the critical role of the hospital in the region’s healthcare system, and infrastructure at VMRT so that patients no longer have to be referred outside the state for treatment.

A key issue discussed was the rising incidence of cancer cases in the district. Butail informed Manoj Gaur about the growing health challenge and formally requested the establishment of an oncology department at VMRT Hospital.

He emphasised the urgent need for specialised cancer treatment facilities, including Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for early diagnosis and advanced treatment options. Additionally, Butail called for the establishment of Urology and Endocrinology departments at the hospital. He assured full support from the state government to improve healthcare services in Palampur.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. Butail expressed confidence that with the Jaypee Trust’s support, VMRT Hospital could significantly enhance medical services and address critical health concerns in the state.

The discussion also explored other opportunities for collaboration between the state government and the Jaypee Group to drive innovation, technological advancements, healthcare improvements, and regional development.