“The government’s decision to remove customs duty on 36 life-saving drugs, including those for cancer and rare diseases, is a positive step that will lower treatment costs and improve access to healthcare. However, the plan to set up only 200 daycare centers in district hospitals is insufficient. Additionally, the overall health budget remains at just 1.8% of GDP, with no significant increase. While the budget offers some benefits, it falls short of addressing key healthcare needs.”
– Dr Sharad Pandit, former regional director, health
“The nearly 10% increase in the health budget is a welcome move, along with the promotion of medical tourism and the removal of customs duty on 36 drugs. However, gradually raising healthcare spending to 4-5% of the total budget would be ideal. With rising cancer cases, the introduction of day-care cancer centers is commendable. A dedicated allocation for cancer prevention and early detection, along with higher taxes on tobacco products, would have further strengthened the nation’s public health efforts.”
– Dr Dilip Kumar Acharya, national chairman, IMA Cancer & Tobacco Control Committee |
– Dr Dilip Kumar Acharya, national chairman, IMA Cancer & Tobacco Control Committee
“This year, the health sector received a significant budgetary allocation, particularly for strengthening public healthcare. The budget also includes funding for the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which will enhance digitalization in healthcare. However, greater focus is needed on human resource allocation, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas, with better incentives and a streamlined HR policy. Overall, it is a positive budget for the health sector.”
– Dr Abhishek Jinwal, nodal officer, hospital administration
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– Dr Abhishek Jinwal, nodal officer, hospital administration
“Overall, the health budget for 2025 seems to be a step in the right direction, but its success will depend on effective implementation and addressing the concerns of healthcare. There is a need to balance quantity with quality in medical education, ensuring that the increased number of medical seats doesn’t compromise the quality of education.”
– Dr Bhupendra Singh Shekhawat, chairman, IMA central zone |
– Dr Bhupendra Singh Shekhawat, chairman, IMA central zone
