AstraZeneca India & Andhra Gov Inks MoU to Launch AI, Genomics & Precision Oncology Ecosystem
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The collaboration aims to create an end-to-end precision oncology platform that supports every stage of cancer care, from AI-enabled screening and diagnosis to biomarker testing, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up
The Government of Andhra Pradesh has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AstraZeneca India to launch India's first integrated Precision Oncology ecosystem.
The facility brings together Artificial Intelligence (AI), Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), advanced genomics, and the innovation capabilities of Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) to advance cancer research and precision medicine, and to strengthen personalised cancer treatment.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Praveen Rao Akkinepally, Country President & Managing Director, AstraZeneca Pharma, Chief Secretary G Sai Prasad and senior officials from the Health Department.
The collaboration aims to create an end-to-end precision oncology platform that supports every stage of cancer care, from AI-enabled screening and diagnosis to biomarker testing, treatment planning and long-term follow-up.
Under the agreement, AstraZeneca India will set up the centre in collaboration with Reliance-backed Strand Life Sciences and health-tech firm Qure.ai.
The initiative will be integrated with Amaravati’s Quantum Valley framework to offer targeted cancer therapies based on individual genetic profiles.
The project will deploy Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and AI tools to detect cancer at an early stage and customise treatment protocols.
As part of the rollout, AI-enabled X-ray screening systems will be installed in government hospitals across the State to strengthen initial lung cancer screening for faster clinical diagnosis while reducing critical treatment delays for patients relying on public medical facilities.
A key pillar of the partnership is the establishment of the Integrated Genomic Solutions Centre (IGSC).
The facility is reportely is reported first of its kind initiative in Andhra Pradesh and is expected to expand access to advanced genomic diagnostics for cancer patients.
The IGSC will perform Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based biomarker testing for lung and breast cancer patients.
In addition, during the initial phase of the program, AstraZeneca India will facilitate complimentary biomarker testing, which will help improve access to advanced diagnostics that are often inaccessible because of cost or limited availability.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said, “Healthcare across the world is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Artificial intelligence, genomics and data science are changing the way diseases are detected, diagnosed and treated. Our vision is to ensure that these technologies are not confined to a few advanced institutions but become accessible to every citizen through our public healthcare system.
Commenting on the collaboration, the CM said, “Our partnership with AstraZeneca represents an important milestone in building a predictive, preventive and personalised healthcare ecosystem for Andhra Pradesh. By integrating AI-enabled screening, advanced genomic diagnostics and coordinated patient pathways, we aim to detect cancer earlier, improve treatment outcomes and reduce the burden on thousands of families.”
He further emphasised the need for early detection and urged healthcare systems to adopt an approach that is predictive, preventive, and curative.
“This initiative complements our broader vision of leveraging emerging technologies through programmes such as Sanjeevani, Real Time Governance and Amaravati Quantum Valley to build a healthier, future-ready Andhra Pradesh. It is another step towards making the State a national leader in healthcare innovation while ensuring that innovation ultimately serves people,” he added.
Sharing his thoughts, Praveen Rao Akkinepally, Country President & Managing Director, AstraZeneca Pharma India, said, "Cancer care is increasingly moving towards precision medicine, where every patient receives treatment based on the unique biology of their disease. At AstraZeneca, we are committed to transforming cancer outcomes through scientific innovation, early diagnosis, and equitable access to advanced care.”
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