Udaipur: The Union Budget has arrived as a source of relief for patients and their families at a time when healthcare costs are rising and lifestyle-related diseases are becoming increasingly common. Especially for Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where access to specialized medical care is still limited, the budget offers renewed confidence and hope.
The strong focus on strengthening the biopharma sector is particularly significant, as diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders require long-term and advanced treatment. Promoting domestic manufacturing of biologics and biosimilar medicines will make these therapies more accessible and affordable, enabling patients to receive better treatment closer to their homes.
Taking this further, the budget proposes an exemption from basic customs duty on 17 life-saving drugs, including several critical cancer medicines. In addition, medicines, treatments, and special nutritional products for seven rare diseases have been exempted for personal import. These measures will provide direct financial relief to families battling serious and long-term illnesses, especially in smaller cities where patients also bear additional travel and accommodation expenses for treatment. Reduced treatment costs will allow patients to continue their care without interruptions or compromises in quality.
At the same time, plans to expand the allied healthcare workforce in the coming years will help hospitals deliver more comprehensive and effective care. Improved availability of trained professionals in diagnostics, critical care, and mental health services will enhance the quality of treatment and lead to better patient outcomes.
The proposal to develop regional medical tourism hubs through private sector participation is also a forward-looking initiative. This will help create high-quality and affordable healthcare facilities beyond major metropolitan areas, benefiting both domestic and international patients.
Overall, these measures together represent a significant and positive step toward making India’s healthcare system more accessible, affordable, and patient-centric—particularly for those battling cancer and rare diseases.