The interim budget 2024-25 unveiled a comprehensive plan to revamp and fortify India’s healthcare system by focusing on strengthening infrastructure, preventive care and streamlined delivery of services.
It has proposed the establishment of more medical colleges by utilising the existing hospital infrastructure.
The ongoing, nationwide shortage of doctors and trained medical staff came into sharp focus during the Covid-19 pandemic. Thousands of Indian students have been spending money to study medicine in Ukraine, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Georgia, Armenia and Philippines every year. The investment in medical institutions and education, in addition to ensuring sufficient infrastructure and faculty, will not only reduce dependency on other countries, but also on private institutions.
Another notable announcement made was the plan to encourage cervical cancer vaccination for girls aged 9-14. Such focus on preventive care will curb the incidence.Encouraging vaccination will not only help in prioritising women's health but also address the long-term economic and societal impacts associated with this preventable ailment.
To bring synergy between various programmes for mother and child care, a comprehensive scheme has been proposed. Anganwadi centers will also be upgraded under ‘Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0’ to combat malnutrition among the group. These centers play a crucial role in making healthcare services accessible in the early stages of motherhood and childhood. The initiative to upgrade is expected to create a holistic environment for proper nutrition, check-ups and last-mile delivery of healthcare services.
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which is one of the largest health assurance schemes in the world, aims at providing a health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care. Recognising the contribution of grassroot workers, such as Accredited Social Health Activist, Anganwadi workers and helpers, the coverage under this initiative will provide them and their families the financial security and access to quality healthcare. The inclusion of healthcare and insurance coverage is not only a demonstration of social equality but also a strategic step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable workforce.
To extend the Digital India initiative in the healthcare sector, the Unorganised Worker Identification Number platform for managing immunisation and expediting the efforts of Mission Indradhanush will be rolled out. This initiative will help in streamlining vaccine distribution, monitor vaccination schedules and ensure real-time data tracking. Incorporating technology will help in creating a resilient and responsive immunisation ecosystem.
The strategic commitments reflect a transformative approach to the healthcare sector. By focusing on preventative measures, improving critical health infrastructure, embracing technology and supporting grassroot workers, the government is laying the foundation for a transformed healthcare sector, which will provide equitable, affordable and quality service to all, benefitting millions of lives and contributing to the nation's overall prosperity.
