Budget 2025: India will become number one in the world in healthcare, Sitharaman will have to make these announcements
India’s healthcare sector is growing rapidly and is now on the verge of becoming a world leader. Budget 2025, which will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, provides an opportunity for healthcare to make India number one on the global map.
But for this some big and bold steps will have to be taken. In this article we will discuss the possible announcements and reforms that can help India’s healthcare sector take the top position globally.
India’s healthcare sector: an emerging force
India’s healthcare sector is currently one of the fastest growing sectors in the world. Along with government schemes, the private sector also has a big contribution in this.
- Ayushman Bharat Scheme:
Under the world’s largest health scheme, more than 50 crore people are getting free treatment facilities.
- Medical Tourism:
India is becoming a hub of medical tourism due to its affordable and high quality health services.
- Pharma Sector:
India is the world’s third largest drug manufacturer and is known for affordable medicines.
However, the healthcare sector still needs investment in infrastructure, research and modern technologies.
Necessary steps to promote healthcare in Budget 2025
If India has to become number one in healthcare, then it is necessary to announce these reforms in Budget 2025:
1. Big investment in health infrastructure
Lack of infrastructure in healthcare is a major challenge. The government will have to allocate a larger budget to increase the number of hospitals, primary health centers and medical colleges.
- Establishment of modern hospitals in rural areas.
- Multi-specialty hospitals in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
2. Promote digital healthcare
The government should invest in technology to make India a global leader in digital healthcare.
- Telemedicine: Facility to consult specialist doctors in remote areas.
- Health Data: Mandating Electronic Health Records (EHR).
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Use of AI for accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
3. Funding for health research and innovation
India needs to increase investment in health research and innovation.
- Research for treatment of new diseases.
- Self-reliance in development of vaccines and medicines.
- Emphasis on biotechnology and genetics.
4. Expansion of medical tourism
India has an opportunity to take medical tourism to a new level.
- Special health package for international patients.
- Simplifying the medical visa process.
- Creation of world class health infrastructure.
5. Increasing the number of health workers
The biggest need in healthcare is for trained doctors, nurses and health workers.
- Increasing the number of medical and nursing colleges.
- Special training program for health workers.
- Ensuring availability of doctors in rural areas.
Possible announcements that can be made in Budget 2025
- Ayushman Bharat 2.0:
The scheme can be further expanded to include more beneficiaries.
- Medical Research Fund:
The government can announce a separate fund for health research and innovation.
- Digital Health Mission:
A new mission can be started to promote digital healthcare.
- Vaccine Manufacturing:
New plans can be introduced to make India a global vaccine hub.
- Rural Health Mission:
New schemes may be announced to strengthen primary health services in rural areas.
India’s global competitiveness in healthcare
India competes with countries like America, China and Germany in healthcare. There is huge expenditure on healthcare in these countries. If India strengthens its healthcare system, it will not only be beneficial for its citizens but will also make its place at the global level.
