The government is prioritizing preventive healthcare through large-scale screening programs, with nearly nine crore women screened for cervical cancer. The launch of the U-WIN portal has streamlined the tracking of vaccination programs for pregnant women and children, recording nearly 30 crore vaccine doses.
Addressing the joint session of Parliament before the presentation of the FY 2025-26 Budget, President Droupadi Murmu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holistic and inclusive development. She emphasized that healthcare infrastructure is being strengthened alongside physical infrastructure to make medical services more affordable, accessible, and of higher quality for all citizens.
“In a significant step toward enhancing primary healthcare, 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established across the country, bringing essential medical services closer to people,” the President stated.
Presenting an overview of the government’s healthcare initiatives, she highlighted measures to ease the burden of cancer treatment. Several cancer drugs have been exempted from customs duty, reducing financial strain on patients and their families. Investments in hospital infrastructure, expansion of treatment facilities, and improved access to medicines have collectively helped in lowering healthcare costs for ordinary households.
The government’s proactive approach to disease prevention has yielded positive outcomes. Efforts to combat encephalitis have significantly reduced mortality rates from the disease to six percent. Under the National TB Eradication Programme, the number of tuberculosis cases has declined, strengthening India’s fight against infectious diseases. The government has also urged citizens and members of Parliament to actively contribute to achieving a TB-free India.
Maternal and infant healthcare has seen notable improvements, reflected in declining mortality rates due to targeted interventions. The U-WIN portal has further streamlined vaccine tracking for pregnant women and children, with nearly 30 crore doses recorded. Meanwhile, telemedicine services have played a pivotal role in expanding healthcare access, facilitating over 30 crore e-consultations and ensuring medical guidance reaches even the most remote regions.
To address the shortage of medical professionals, the government is working on adding 75,000 new seats in medical colleges over the next five years. Simultaneously, it is bolstering domestic manufacturing of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals by developing bulk drug and medical device parks. These initiatives not only strengthen the healthcare sector but also create employment opportunities, reinforcing India’s standing as a global leader in medical innovation.
Through these sustained efforts, the government aims to establish a more resilient healthcare system, ensuring quality medical services reach every section of society while also driving economic growth through infrastructure development.
Highlighting the role of bio-manufacturing in the next phase of industrial progress, the President mentioned the BioE3 Policy, which aims to promote a bio-economy. This policy focuses on the efficient use of natural resources to create employment opportunities while maintaining environmental sustainability.
