Expect demand for early and precise diagnostics to surge due to expansion of telemedicine infrastructure through broadband connectivity in PHCs, setting up of 200 new daycare cancer centers in district hospitals, exemption of customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs and rationalisation on duties on medical including diagnostic equipment
Ameera Shah, Promoter and Executive Chairperson, Metropolis Healthcare
Budget 2025-26 marks a significant step forward for India’s healthcare sector, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Viksit Bharat. Key reforms—expanding medical education, strengthening Heal in India, promoting medical tourism, allowing 100 per cent FDI in insurance, extending PM-JAY to gig workers, enhancing cancer care affordability, and equipping primary healthcare with broadband connectivity—are crucial strides toward greater accessibility and equity. With a strong focus on Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and ease of doing business, the budget also underscores the critical role of private sector collaboration in making healthcare a foundational pillar of a developed India.
However, to establish India as a global healthcare leader, greater emphasis on innovation in diagnostics is essential. Advancing precision medicine, strengthening preventive care, and improving access to diagnostic testing will accelerate progress. The expansion of broadband in primary health centres is a welcome move, enabling telemedicine to bridge rural-urban healthcare gaps.
While the budget lays a strong foundation, critical areas like GST rationalisation in healthcare require urgent attention. Increasing the tax exemption for preventive health check-ups, extending benefits to multiple family members, and integrating outpatient diagnostics into insurance packages will significantly enhance affordability and encourage proactive health management. We look forward to continued dialogue and effective implementation to build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready healthcare system.
Dr Anand K, MD & CEO, Agilus Diagnostics
The Union Budget 2025-26 stands out as one of the most impactful for the healthcare sector in recent times, reinforcing the government’s vision of an affordable and comprehensive healthcare system as a key pillar of Viksit Bharat. The significant investments in cancer care, expansion of medical education, and promotion of Heal in India and medical tourism will play a crucial role in strengthening India’s healthcare infrastructure.
The establishment of 200 district-level daycare cancer centers and exemption of essential medicines from basic customs duties will greatly enhance accessibility to critical treatments. The addition of 10,000 medical seats this year, with a vision to add 75,000 in the next five years, is a crucial step toward addressing the healthcare workforce gap.
The government’s strong push for private sector participation, backed by regulatory reforms and a ₹1.5 lakh crore infrastructure push, will create new opportunities for innovation and investment. The proposed AI Development Center and regional skilling hubs with global collaborations will help modernise healthcare delivery and diagnostics.
Furthermore, the expansion of telemedicine through broadband connectivity in primary health centers will improve access to care for rural patients. The increased credit cover for MSMEs and startups, coupled with a trust-based regulatory framework, will foster a more conducive business environment.
Overall, this budget lays a strong foundation for a robust healthcare ecosystem, ensuring quality healthcare reaches every citizen while also strengthening India’s position as a global healthcare hub.
Dr Aakaar Kapoor, CEO, City X-Ray & Scan Clinic
Diagnostics are the backbone of quality healthcare, and Budget 2025-26 has introduced progressive measures to strengthen this sector. The expansion of telemedicine infrastructure through broadband connectivity in PHCs will significantly enhance digital diagnostics and AI-driven radiology services. The government’s decision to exempt customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs and rationalisation on duties on medical including diagnostic equipment will ensure affordability for patients undergoing prolonged treatments that require advanced diagnostic support.
With the 200 new daycare cancer centers set to be established in district hospitals the demand for early and precise diagnostics will surge. Encouraging investments in digital healthcare and medical tourism will further improve the diagnostics sector’s reach. A well-implemented PPP model in diagnostics could also accelerate last-mile healthcare delivery. We hope to see further steps that encourage indigenous manufacturing of imaging and laboratory equipment to support the diagnostics industry’s long-term growth.
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