India's First Integrative Oncology Research and Care Centre Launched by Ministry of Ayush in Goa

India has witnessed a pioneering leap in cancer care with the inauguration of the nation’s first Integrative Oncology Research and Care Centre (IORCC) at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Dhargal, Goa. This visionary center, launched by the Ministry of Ayush on the occasion of the 10th National Ayurveda Day, is set to redefine holistic cancer rehabilitation and research through an innovative blend of traditional and modern medical wisdom. India's First Integrative Oncology Research and Care Centre Launched by Ministry of Ayush in Goa

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What Makes the IORCC Unique?

The IORCC is India's first multidisciplinary hub where Ayurveda, Yoga, Physiotherapy, Diet Therapy, Panchakarma, and modern oncology converge. Here’s what makes this Center truly groundbreaking:

• It delivers integrated, evidence-informed cancer care, merging the strengths of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation with time-tested Ayurvedic therapies, Yoga, and tailored nutrition plans.

• The facility offers comprehensive rehabilitation and supports patients at every step, aiming not just to treat, but to improve recovery, reduce side effects, and build immunity and mental resilience.

• Backed by collaboration between the Government of Goa, AIIA, and ACTREC of Tata Memorial Centre, the center is dedicated to patient-centric care, cutting-edge research, and professional training.

The Vision and Benefits

• Holistic Patient Experience: Cancer patients receive customized recovery programs, including detoxification therapies, yoga for mental and physical balance, and scientifically validated dietary support—all coordinated alongside mainstream oncological treatments.

• Advanced Research and Training: The IORCC also acts as a research and academic hub, developing best practices in integrative oncology, validating new protocols, and building capacity for AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in cancer recovery.

• National Model for Innovation: By establishing this Centre of Excellence, the Ministry of Ayush aims to create a scalable model for integrated healthcare, inspiring similar initiatives across India and beyond.

Words from Leaders

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant describes the IORCC as a “landmark step in our fight against cancer,” highlighting the unique approach that blends evidence-based Ayurvedic therapies with modern interventions for more robust outcomes. Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav emphasizes the Ministry’s mission to deliver excellence by integrating traditional systems with modern science for holistic patient care and psychosocial wellbeing.

Leadership and Expertise

The Centre is chaired by Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean of AIIA Goa, with Dr. Sanjay Khedekar as convener, supported by leading oncologists, integrative specialists, and a team passionate about advancing evidence-based integrative healthcare.

This milestone doesn’t just mark an institution but a movement—ushering in a new era for cancer patients. The IORCC at AIIA Goa sets a precedent for compassionate, comprehensive, and cutting-edge care, serving as a beacon for healthcare transformation in India.

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