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Budget 2026: Health Ministry Gets 10% Boost
1 Feb
Summary
- Health Ministry allocation increased by 10% to INR 1.06 lakh crore.
- Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission funding rises sharply.
- National Health Mission receives Rs 39,390 crore for primary healthcare.
The Union Budget for 2026-27 earmarks a substantial INR 1.06 lakh crore for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, marking a 10% increase in funding. This enhanced budget prioritizes critical health infrastructure, with the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission receiving a nearly 68% funding surge to Rs 4,770 crore. These funds will support the development of essential healthcare facilities across states.
The National Health Mission has been allocated Rs 39,390 crore, aimed at bolstering primary healthcare services, disease control initiatives, and maternal and child health programs. The Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme will receive Rs 9,500 crore to strengthen its hospital network and service delivery. Medical education and tertiary care also benefit, with the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana receiving Rs 11,307 crore.
Further initiatives include a Rs 10,000-crore 'Bio Pharma Shakti' plan over five years to boost domestic production of biologics and biosimilars, and a multi-year plan to train allied health professionals. Notably, the budget promises 24/7 emergency and trauma care in every district hospital and provides full customs duty exemption on 17 life-saving drugs, including cancer treatments, to reduce patient costs.
