Boost for Health: Rs 1.06 Lakh Crore in Budget 2026

India's Union Budget 2026-27 has made a significant commitment to public health, allocating Rs 1,06,530.42 crore to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This marks a 10% increase from the revised estimates of the previous year and represents over a 194% rise since 2014-15. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the importance of this budget in building a robust long-term healthcare system for the country.

The allocation includes Rs 4,821.21 crore for the Department of Health Research, underscoring the government's focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, delivery, and access across India. With rising public health spending over the last decade, the government is moving beyond temporary fixes to create systems that have a lasting impact on the population.

Three key areas highlighted in the budget are the expansion of digital health services, a focus on mental health institutions, and the establishment of permanent emergency systems developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The budget allocates Rs 350 crore to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, marking an 8% increase from last year. This funding aims to enhance digital health records, improve coordination among healthcare providers, and expand telemedicine services.

The emphasis on digital health is intended to create a more seamless healthcare experience for patients, making it easier to access health records and utilize remote consultations. This approach is particularly beneficial for those requiring ongoing treatment or those living far from major healthcare centers.

Mental health has also received significant attention in this budget. The government has announced upgrades for leading mental health institutions in Ranchi and Tezpur, along with plans for a new National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in North India. These initiatives aim to enhance specialized care, training, and research in mental health, highlighting its importance as a core component of public healthcare.

One of the key announcements is the establishment of Emergency and Trauma Care Centres in every district hospital across the country. These centres will provide 24/7 emergency services that are both affordable and accessible. This initiative builds on the emergency systems developed during the pandemic, ensuring that preparedness for emergencies is a sustained effort rather than a short-term response.

By embedding emergency care within district hospitals, the government aims to make timely critical healthcare a routine part of public health services. This budget reflects a comprehensive approach to public health that addresses both immediate and long-term needs, ultimately benefiting citizens throughout India.