India has delivered 7.5 tonnes of life-saving cancer medicines to Kabul, reinforcing its continued humanitarian support for the people of Afghanistan and addressing the urgent medical needs of cancer patients in the country.
The medical consignment forms part of India’s broader commitment to providing essential healthcare assistance to Afghanistan, particularly in critical areas such as cancer treatment. Indian authorities reiterated that the support reflects New Delhi’s enduring solidarity with the Afghan people and its focus on humanitarian cooperation.
Healthcare collaboration between the two countries has gained renewed momentum through recent high-level engagements. Discussions have focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in the health sector, including capacity building for Afghan healthcare workers, sharing medical expertise, and ensuring the sustained supply of quality medicines.
India has also committed to further strengthening Afghanistan’s healthcare infrastructure. In addition to the cancer medicines, India is preparing to dispatch vaccines, essential drugs, and advanced medical equipment, including a CT scan machine, to hospitals in Kabul. Efforts are also underway to ease access to medical treatment for Afghan patients requiring specialised care.
Over the past four years, India has supplied hundreds of tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan, underlining its role as a key humanitarian partner. Proposals for additional medical support, including radiotherapy equipment and expanded pharmaceutical supplies, are currently under consideration.
Beyond modern healthcare, both sides have explored cooperation in traditional systems of medicine. Discussions have included plans to establish a traditional medicine institute and research centre in Kabul, develop training programmes for practitioners, and expand academic and research collaboration in the field.
India’s assistance reflects a comprehensive approach to healthcare diplomacy, combining emergency medical aid, long-term capacity building, and institutional support. The continued engagement underscores New Delhi’s commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s healthcare system and improving access to essential medical services for its population.
