Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget in Parliament today. She made several important announcements for the healthcare sector. Key highlights include the launch of day-care centers in cancer hospitals and easier visas for medical tourism in India. The aim is to make cancer treatment and other critical disease care more accessible.
Day-Care Centers for Cancer Treatment
The government plans to reduce the prices of medicines for cancer and other serious illnesses. This move will help reduce the financial burden on patients. The Finance Minister announced the establishment of 200 cancer day-care centers in collaboration with state governments. These centers will provide early checkups and treatment for patients in rural areas.
Why This Decision Was Made
The decision comes as a response to the rising cases of both non-communicable diseases and communicable diseases in India. The growing health crisis demands better facilities and affordable treatments.
Tax Reduction on Cancer Medicines
In the Budget, it was announced that the GST on three major cancer drugs — Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab — has been reduced.
Advanced Equipment for Cancer Treatment
The Finance Minister also highlighted the need for affordable advanced cancer treatment machines such as radiotherapy machines and robotics equipment. Currently, these are subject to 37% customs duty. Reducing these charges will help bring down the overall cost of cancer treatment in the country.
This budget aims to play a crucial role in transforming India’s healthcare sector and providing relief to patients suffering from critical diseases.