Analysis of Health-care Allocations in Budget 2026: Schemes, Shortfalls, and Future Targets
The health-care allocation for 2026 shows a 10% increase to over ₹1.05 lakh crore, yet experts note it remains only 1.9% of total expenditure and 0.26% of GDP. A major highlight is the ₹10,000 crore Biopharma SHAKTI scheme aimed at making India a manufacturing hub for biologics. The budget also plans for three new NIPERs and a second NIMHANS campus. While the government has reduced duties on cancer medicines, critics argue the funding falls short of the 2.5% of GDP target set by the National Health Policy 2017.
Key Points
- The Biopharma SHAKTI scheme is a ₹10,000 crore initiative to boost manufacturing of biologics and biosimilars.
- The government aims to train 1 lakh allied health professionals and 1.5 lakh care workers for the elderly.
- Customs and import duties have been exempted for 17 cancer medicines and several rare disease treatments.
- Total health allocation remains below the National Health Policy 2017 target of 2.5% of GDP.
Exam Facts
- Biopharma SHAKTI scheme: ₹10,000 crore over five years.
- Health budget 2026: ~1.9% of total government expenditure and 0.26% of GDP.
- National Health Policy 2017 target: Health spending at 2.5% of GDP by 2025.
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