The countdown for the Union Budget 2026 has officially begun, and all eyes are on Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The healthcare sector, particularly primary healthcare, is anticipating a major boost in funding. Industry experts believe that the government might announce a substantial increase in. The health budget to address long-standing infrastructure gaps and prepare for future challenges.
The 2.5% GDP Target for Healthcare
One of the primary demands from health experts is to align the national health expenditure with the target of 2. 5% of the GDP. While healthcare spending saw a spike during the COVID-19 pandemic, it stabilized as focus shifted back to other developmental sectors. Experts argue that to achieve universal health coverage, a consistent and high level of funding is required, while budget 2026 is expected to take a definitive step toward this goal by ensuring high-priority areas receive dedicated funds.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare and District Hospitals
A key focus of the upcoming budget is likely to be the strengthening of primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in both rural and urban areas. Experts have emphasized the need for an integrated healthcare system where district hospitals act as solid hubs. By improving the financial incentives for PHCs and ensuring they've the necessary diagnostic tools, the government can reduce the burden on tertiary care hospitals in metropolitan cities.
Empowering ASHA Workers and Health Human Resources
With an aging population and the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension, the role of frontline health workers has become more critical than ever, while there is a strong recommendation to double the number of ASHA workers and multipurpose health workers. Budget 2026 might introduce specialized training programs and better financial security. For these workers to ensure effective community-level screening and preventive care.
Expansion of Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY)
The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) has been a flagship scheme, but there is a growing demand to expand its coverage to all sections of society. The budget is expected to facilitate the inclusion of more accredited hospitals and move towards a 'single-payer' system, while Plus, the Digital Health Mission is likely to receive a push, with investments in AI-driven healthcare and tele-health services to bridge the urban-rural divide.
Nutrition, Sanitation, and Climate Resilience
The Economic Survey 2025-26 has hinted at stricter measures for public health, including higher taxes on ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages. Also, the budget is expected to allocate funds for climate change adaptation, specifically for heatwave protection plans in vulnerable regions, while improving access to clean water, sanitation, and air quality remains a top priority to ensure a holistic approach to public health.