Well-informed Budget 2025: Pavan Choudary, MTaI

While attuned to current needs, Pavan Choudary, Chairman, Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) hopes to see some reductions in customs duties on medical devices which are not import substitutable in the near term

The government’s initiatives, including the establishment of five major skill development centers, would help meet the target of 300,000 healthcare workers India aims to export annually.

Also, simplifying visa procedures for medical tourists is a timely priority to cope with the shocks that current geo-politics especially with respect to Bangladesh, has given to our medical tourism market. Overall this cross-border flow of patients and healers will expand the market and create more proficient healthcare workers.

Day-care cancer centers were much needed as chemotherapy for cancer cannot be administered at home because of the potential risks associated with handling potent medications, the need for close monitoring of side effects, and the risk of accidental exposure to other household members.

The budget is well-informed and thoughtfully attuned to current needs. We are reading the fine print and hope to see some reductions in customs duties on medical devices which are not import substitutable in the near term.