Union Budget FY 2026–27: Healthcare, Medical Value Tourism Get Major Boost
The Union Budget FY 2026–27 has placed strong emphasis on strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem and positioning the country as a global hub for medical value tourism. The Government of India has outlined a multi-pronged strategy focusing on workforce development, infrastructure expansion, traditional medicine, and international patient services.
Strengthening Healthcare Workforce
To address skill shortages across critical disciplines, the Budget proposes expanding institutions for Allied Health Professionals (AHPs). These institutions will cover diagnostics, clinical support, and behavioural health services. The initiative aims to build a strong talent pipeline to meet domestic healthcare needs and support international patient services.
Care Economy and Allied Health Services
A structured care ecosystem covering geriatric care and allied services will be developed. Nationally aligned training programmes will create multi-skilled caregivers, improving service quality, addressing demographic changes, and generating employment opportunities.
Boost to AYUSH and Traditional Medicine
India’s traditional medicine sector will be strengthened through new All India Institutes of Ayurveda, upgradation of AYUSH pharmacies and drug-testing laboratories, and enhanced research, training, certification, and global outreach.
Healthcare Infrastructure and Trauma Care
The Budget proposes expanding emergency and trauma care capacity through new institutions and upgrades of existing mental health and trauma facilities. District-level healthcare infrastructure will also be strengthened to improve accessibility and system resilience.
Medical Value Tourism Hubs
States will be supported to establish five Regional Medical Value Tourism Hubs in partnership with the private sector. These hubs will offer advanced medical and surgical services, diagnostics, rehabilitation, education, research facilities, and dedicated international patient facilitation centres.
Final Outlook
These initiatives aim to enhance healthcare delivery, expand employment, and reinforce India’s position as a preferred global destination for affordable and high-quality medical care.
