Budget 2026: Rs 1.06 Lakh Cr for Health Services
The Union Budget 2026-27 has made a significant allocation of Rs 1.06 lakh crore to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, reflecting a 10% increase compared to the revised estimates for the previous year. This robust financial commitment signifies the government's dedication to improving healthcare in India, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighting a cumulative rise of over 194% since the budget of 2014-15.
One of the core focuses of this budget is the expansion of digital health services. The government has allocated Rs 350 crore to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which aims to enhance digital health records and improve coordination among healthcare providers. By investing in telemedicine and integrated hospital information systems, the government seeks to make healthcare more accessible and efficient, particularly for patients in remote areas.
Moreover, mental health care has received special attention in this budget. The government plans to upgrade key mental health institutions and establish a new National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in North India. These initiatives aim to expand specialized care, training, and research, highlighting the importance of mental health as a fundamental aspect of public healthcare.
Additionally, the budget outlines plans to set up Emergency and Trauma Care Centres in every district hospital. This initiative is designed to provide affordable and accessible emergency services, ensuring that communities have timely access to critical care. By embedding these emergency systems within district hospitals, the government aims to make emergency preparedness a standard part of public health services.
This budget's emphasis on digital health, mental healthcare, and emergency services demonstrates a structural shift in India's healthcare system. It aims not only to address immediate health needs but also to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure for the future. The continued rise in public health spending suggests a long-term vision for healthcare in India, ensuring that essential services developed during the COVID-19 pandemic are integrated into the public health framework permanently.
