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In a significant push towards enhancing India’s healthcare sector and positioning the country as a global medical tourism hub, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her annual budget presentation on Saturday, announced several key measures aimed at strengthening medical infrastructure, easing access to life-saving drugs, and streamlining medical visa norms.

Boost to Medical Tourism and ‘Heal in India’ Initiative

One of the major announcements was the government’s commitment to promoting medical tourism in collaboration with the private sector. The ‘Heal in India’ initiative, a flagship program designed to attract international patients seeking quality healthcare at affordable costs, will see renewed efforts in capacity building and policy reforms.

With India already being one of the most sought-after destinations for medical treatments, the government’s focus on expanding medical facilities and ensuring seamless access to healthcare services for international patients is expected to significantly boost the sector. The relaxation of visa norms will further simplify the process for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in India, making it easier for them to avail themselves of world-class medical care.

Relief on Import of Life-Saving Drugs and Medicines

A major highlight of the budget was the government’s decision to provide relief to patients suffering from severe chronic illnesses, including cancer and rare diseases, by expanding the list of life-saving drugs that are fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD). A total of 36 new drugs and medicines have been added to the exemption list, while six more will now attract a concessional customs duty of 5%.

This move is expected to reduce the financial burden on patients who require expensive medications for long-term treatment. Additionally, the exemptions will apply to bulk drugs used in the manufacturing of these medicines, ensuring a steady supply of affordable drugs in the domestic market.

Furthermore, the government has extended full customs duty exemptions to 37 more medicines that are distributed free of cost under pharmaceutical companies’ Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs). Thirteen new assistance programs have also been introduced to support patients who cannot afford high-cost medications.

With these strategic initiatives, India is set to strengthen its position as a global leader in medical tourism while ensuring that its own population has better access to critical healthcare services. The budget’s emphasis on healthcare reforms reaffirms the government’s commitment to building a healthier and more resilient nation.

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