The health sector was expecting the health budget to be increased to 2.5 per cent of GDP, promotion of medical value tourism and reduction in taxation which were not mentioned in the budget presented by the FM. However the industry welcomed the move of exemption of three cancer drugs from customs duty and the BCD reduction on X-ray tubes and flat panel detectors.
In the interim budget, Sitharaman allocated ₹90,171 crore to the healthcare sector, a substantial increase from the ₹79,221 crore allotted in 2023-24. Industry advocates have been pushing for health expenditure to be increased to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), with more investment in R&D and innovation, and a reduction in taxes. This is crucial as India approaches the 2025 deadline set by the National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 to increase health expenditure to 2.5 per cent of GDP.
The budget also highlights the other healthcare schemes such as Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM which aims to create a national digital health ecosystem across the country and eSanjeevani, telemedicine for virtual doctor consultations in remote.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr Matthew said, "When I first arrived in the UAE, the infrastructure was still evolving. Inspired by the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, I dedicated myself to helping the people. I am deeply grateful that my efforts have been recognised."
Presenting the full budget for the fiscal, Finance Minister Diya Kumari said, four lakh vacancies will be filled in the next five years and a policy for youths will be framed.
There is a provision of Rs 365 crore for multipurpose disease control program, Rs 350 crore for Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, Rs 326 crore for building construction of community health/sub health/primary health centres, Rs 252 crore for cold fever and Rs 250 crore for building construction of hospitals and dispensaries.
The suggestions given by the expert representatives will be considered positively and by including these suggestions, a public welfare budget will be brought for the people of the state, Sharma said.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare plays a crucial role in the nation's progress and the well-being of its people. As the backbone of the country, the health sector not only promotes public health but also stands as a strong force in addressing and overcoming health challenges," the minister posted on X after taking charge.
It is imperative to advocate for policies that prioritise environmental sustainability and public health, and invest in research and innovation to develop sustainable healthcare practices, Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia said on the World Environment Day.
Musk, wearing a green batik shirt, said the availability of the Starlink service in Indonesia would help millions in far-flung parts of the country to access the internet. The country is home to more than 270 million people and three different time zones
In this year’s budget, while no new major projects were announced, govt allocated Rs 194 crore for the purchase of new ambulances for centralised accident and trauma services in Delhi. At present, the city has 380 CATS ambulances. For construction of new hospitals and expansion of existing facilities, Rs 400 crore has been proposed.
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