Budget 2025: Nirmala Sitharaman Announces Major Relief For Cancer Patients, Reduces Drug Costs
Budget 2026 Impact on Your Pocket: CNG, Medicines, Microwaves to Get Cheaper; Liquor, Cigarettes Costlier – Full List
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 on February 1, making several significant announcements to benefit various sectors, including healthcare. A major relief for cancer patients was announced with the removal of customs duty on cancer medicines. The Finance Minister stated that the government would eliminate the tax on 36 life-saving cancer drugs, making them more affordable for patients.
Additionally, Sitharaman unveiled plans to establish Cancer Day Care Centers in all district hospitals across the country over the next three years. This initiative aims to provide better access to cancer care, especially in rural areas.
In another key healthcare move, the government announced that customs duty on six other life-saving drugs will be reduced by 5%, further reducing the cost of treatment.
The Finance Minister also highlighted the expansion of medical education with the creation of 10,000 additional seats in medical colleges, with a goal of adding 75,000 seats over the next five years. These announcements reflect the government’s focus on healthcare infrastructure and the well-being of the population, particularly those battling life-threatening diseases like cancer.
Abrarali Dalal, Managing Director and CEO, Sahyadri Hospitals Pvt Ltd expressed his views about the Budget 2025. He said, “This year’s Union Budget firmly anchors itself in the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ aspiring to provide quality education and comprehensive healthcare for all. The budget overall focuses on increasing affordability of healthcare solutions with the exemption of customs duty on lifesaving medicines that will provide relief to patients suffering from cancer, rare diseases and severe chronic conditions. We look forward to collaborating with the government to position India as a preferred destination for Medical Tourism with the ‘Heal in India’ initiative. Furthermore, an increased focus on strengthening the medical infrastructure aims at making healthcare more accessible to everyone. Adding 75,000 medical seats in the next five years, is a strategic step to build a robust healthcare workforce. Enhancing broadband connectivity in primary healthcare centers will ensure quality healthcare delivery to the last mile in India. And the establishment of 200 day-care cancer centers across district hospitals also highlights a proactive approach to healthcare, focusing on accessibility and affordability. The government is enhancing its inclusive growth agenda through the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 program, aimed at boosting nutritional support for over nine crore beneficiaries, including children, pregnant women and adolescent girls in key regions. This initiative not only promises improved health outcomes but also aims to strengthen the foundation for future generations, addressing health disparities across the country”.
