What are the main concerns doctors have regarding India's Union Budget?

Doctors are concerned that the Union Budget prioritizes pharmaceutical innovation and specialist infrastructure while neglecting crucial aspects of public health such as affordability and prevention.

How does India's public health spending compare to its target?

Public health expenditure in India continues to hover around 1.8-2% of GDP, which is well short of the long-promised target of 2.5%.

What is the budgetary allocation for non-communicable diseases in India?

Less than 2% of India's health budget is earmarked for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, despite them accounting for nearly 75% of all deaths.

Home / Health / Doctors: Budget Boosts Pharma, Ignores Public Health

Doctors: Budget Boosts Pharma, Ignores Public Health

1 Feb

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Summary

Budget prioritizes pharmaceutical innovation over public health needs.
Public health spending remains below promised target.
Non-communicable disease prevention receives minimal funding.

Doctors: Budget Boosts Pharma, Ignores Public Health

Senior doctors have responded to the Union Budget, acknowledging its emphasis on pharmaceutical innovation and specialist infrastructure. Despite a record allocation of ₹1,05,530 crore to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, concerns persist that public health pillars like affordability and prevention are being sidelined.

Experts note that public health expenditure remains stagnant at approximately 1.8-2% of GDP, significantly below the long-standing goal of 2.5%, with no clear strategy to achieve it.

Additionally, the budget's focus is perceived to be skewed towards industry, tertiary care, and medical tourism. This is compounded by drug prices continuing to rise, with a lack of meaningful regulation on pharmaceutical mark-ups.