Pune, 2nd February 2026: India’s healthcare sector has undergone rapid transformation in recent years, with world-class technology, skilled professionals, and modern hospitals now comparable to those in Western countries. However, medical tourism had not received adequate policy attention.
Experts say the Union Budget’s announcement to promote medical tourism will raise global awareness and unlock new opportunities for hospitals, doctors, and allied services.
Dr Simon Grant, Physician and Trustee, Ruby Hall Clinic, said that, “The Budget’s focus on medical tourism will help position India as a global healthcare destination. Reduced import duties on cancer and essential medicines will improve affordability, while higher investment in biopharma and clinical trials will strengthen research and access to advanced treatments.”
Dr Suresh Patankar, Chairman, Ace Hospital, observed that, “Lower import duties on cancer drugs will bring much-needed relief to poor and middle-class patients. The emphasis on geriatric care and caregiver training is timely, considering India’s ageing population. Promoting medical tourism along with yoga and Ayurveda will further enhance India’s global healthcare appeal.”
Uday Deshmukh, CEO, Onco-Life Cancer Centre, stressed that “With a rapid rise in cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases, sustained investment in research is critical. The biopharma initiative will make modern cancer treatments more affordable, reduce dependence on imported medicines, and strengthen India’s self-reliance in healthcare.”
Overall, healthcare experts believe the Budget’s measures will make advanced treatments more affordable, encourage precision medicine, and position India as a global healthcare destination.
By combining cost relief for patients with long-term investment in research and skills, the initiatives are expected to make India’s health system more resilient and self-reliant.
“The Budget’s healthcare initiatives are positive and forward-looking. The push for medical tourism will create employment across the sector, while tax cuts on cancer medicines will directly benefit patients.”
Dr Divij Mane, Director, Noble Hospital
