HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) and SunAct – Advanced Cancer Therapies have launched SunAct’s fourth national Centre of Excellence in Cell and Gene Therapy at HCGMCC in Nashik. The initiative is positioned to broaden access to advanced cancer care in semi-urban and rural regions of North Maharashtra.
The centre was inaugurated by Dr Shripad Banavali, Chairperson of the Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Chapter at the Indian Academy of Paediatrics and Academic Director at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Dr Kumar Prabhash, Professor and Head of Medical Oncology (Solid Tumours) at Tata Memorial Hospital, was present as Guest of Honour. The event was attended by oncologists, researchers, healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups.
“This partnership between HCG Manavata and SunAct signals a pivotal shift in cancer care in Maharashtra. With the launch of this Centre in Nashik, we’re not just extending access; we’re redrawing the map of possibility for oncology in India,” said Dr Shripad Banavali.
Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) offers a new approach to personalised medicine. Unlike traditional therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation, CGT focuses on the genetic and cellular causes of disease. Cell Therapy uses modified immune cells, such as CAR-T cells, to identify and destroy cancer cells. Gene Therapy aims to correct or replace genes that drive cancer growth or support the immune system.
“These therapies are showing exceptional promise in treating blood cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma, and research is rapidly expanding into solid tumours. By targeting cancer at the molecular level, these treatments can achieve higher precision, reduce side effects and offer hope to patients who may not respond to traditional treatments. With the launch of this Centre of Excellence, we are not just offering a treatment, we are offering hope,” said Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director, KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, Nashik.
Other attendees from HCG Manavata Cancer Centre included Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi, Senior Consultant, Haematology-Oncology; Dr Shreeniwas Raut, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology; and Dr Mukesh Chaudhari, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology. Representatives from SunAct included Dr Vijay Patil, Founder; Mr Kushagra Sharma, CEO; and Dr Ashay Karpe, Co-founder.
“This Centre is a continuation of our vision—to democratise the world’s most advanced cancer therapies and deliver them where they’re needed most,” said Dr Vijay Patil.
“With the launch of our fourth centre in Nashik, we continue our mission to make these cutting-edge therapies accessible and affordable, integrating innovation with research to redefine cancer care in India,” said Dr Ashay Karpe.
“Our partnership with HCG Manavata is about bringing tomorrow’s treatments to today’s patients, right here in Nashik. Every life deserves access to advanced care, no matter where they live,” said Mr Kushagra Sharma.
The Centre of Excellence introduces a range of treatments including CAR T-cell therapies, T-cell receptor (TCR) therapies, tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapies, gamma delta T-cell platforms, gene therapies, bone marrow transplantation, precision diagnostics, and clinical trials.
“The latest facility will serve as a hub for innovation, research and patient-centric care that empowers both clinicians and families,” concluded Prof Dr Nagarkar.
