The Union Budget 2025 announced by Fm Nirmala Sitharaman has introduced significant healthcare measures aimed at enhancing cancer care and expanding access to life-saving treatments. These initiatives are designed to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure, improve early detection, and provide affordable treatment options for patients across the country.
One of the key highlights of the budget is the allocation of increased funding to cancer treatment centers nationwide. This includes establishing new specialised oncology units and upgrading existing facilities with advanced medical equipment. The government also plans to expand screening programs to promote early diagnosis, which is crucial for improving survival rates.
Affordable life-saving treatments
To make life-saving treatments more accessible, the budget introduces subsidies for critical medications and therapies, especially for rare and chronic diseases. There is a focus on reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients, with provisions for financial support schemes targeting low-income families.
Mr. Behram Khodaiji, CEO, Ruby Hall Clinic gave his insights to the Free Press Journal saying, "The plan to set up daycare cancer centers in district hospitals and 200 dedicated cancer hospitals by 2026 will decentralise care, reducing the burden on metropolitan hospitals and making critical treatments more accessible. However, ensuring these centers are well-equipped with skilled professionals and advanced technology will be key to their success."
Concession on life-saving drugs
The union budget presented this year also gives relief on costs of life-saving drugs which will be beneficial for the common man to access good healthcare facilities. "The exemption of basic customs duty on 36 life-saving drugs and concessional rates on six more is a crucial step in reducing treatment costs for patients battling cancer, rare diseases, and chronic illnesses. Additionally, waiving customs duty on medicines provided through patient assistance programs is a progressive move, expanding access to essential drugs for those in financial distress," Mr. Behram said.
"With 37 new medicines and 13 more patient assistance programs added, this initiative will significantly benefit underprivileged patients. However, it is vital to ensure transparency and efficiency in the implementation of these programs so that the support reaches those who need it most," he added.
Not only did FM Nirmala Sitharaman propose to improve health care facilities in the nation but also proposed to include additional seats for medical students. In this context, Mr. D. S. Negi, CEO, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) said, "The announcement to add 75,000 medical seats over the next five years, including 10,000 additional seats in FY26, is a crucial step in strengthening medical infrastructure in the country. This significant increase in medical education opportunities will not only address the growing demand for healthcare professionals but can better serve the needs of the population, especially in underserved areas. This will enhance the current doctor-to-population ratio of 1:1263 and will allow us to meet the WHO standard of 1:1000 by 2030."
"The provision of broadband connectivity for primary health care centres will enhance adoption of modern technology and thus benefitting patients widely," he added.
Government introduces Heal In India initiative
With intentions to expedite visa procedures under the "Heal in India" project, Sitharaman declared, "Medical tourism in India will be promoted in partnership with the private sector." The government's larger plan to establish India as a global center for healthcare includes this push for medical tourism.
"The government’s focus on medical tourism and 'heal in India' initiative, with relaxed visa norms and private sector collaboration, will strengthen India’s position as a global healthcare destination. To capitalise on this, investment in infrastructure, quality care, and seamless patient experiences must be prioritised, ensuring India remains competitive in the international healthcare market." Mr. Behram concluded.
