Key Announcements Made –
- Announcement 1: ₹99,858.56 Crore to be allotted to Health Ministry.
Impact: This is a 2% increase since the previous year and will focus on improving maternal and child healthcare under India’s National Health Mission. The budget will also be used for improving healthcare infrastructure. The 2% increase is reflective of the Indian Government’s rising focus on Indian health. However, it may not be sufficient to increase medical seats for 10000 students by next year or to increase cancer daycare centers in district hospitals in the next 3 years, considering there will be continued focus on maintaining existing healthcare programs.
- Announcement 2: Exemption of Basics Custom Duty (BCD) on 36 lifesaving drugs
Impact: The exemption of BCD on critical drugs will help improve patient access to them. Renewed focus on Patient Assistance Programs will also enable improved healthcare.
Announcement 3: Renewed focus on nutrition supporting extension of Jal Jeevan Mission till 2028
Impact: Increased support for providing access to nutrition and water will help reduce incidences of diseases and improve general well-being, especially in rural Indian communities.
Announcement 4: Promotion of Medical Tourism
Impact: Medical Tourism will help improve global healthcare awareness and help promote awareness about advances in Indian healthcare practices. It will improve international collaboration and strengthen the Indian healthcare brand globally.
Overall Impact: Positive
Overall Analysis & Perspective: The 2025 healthcare budget announcement will improve healthcare access, especially across the much-needed rural sectors. Rising opportunities for medical students will empower the development of well-equipped Indian healthcare practitioners. Exposure to international collaboration via medical tourism promotions will provide India a global healthcare platform to promote its healthcare capabilities. Focus on food and nutrition as well as rising support in mental wellbeing initiatives well ensure holistic healthcare practices. This will have a balanced focus on both, better disease care and enhanced general wellbeing.
