Calls for Healthcare Funding and GST Reforms Dominate Pre-Budget Discussions

As the Budget session of Parliament looms, discussions intensify with prominent healthcare and pharmaceutical representatives demanding governmental action on long-standing promises. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Chair of FICCI Health Services Committee, emphasized the urgent need for the government to honor its commitment to allocate 2.5% of the GDP for healthcare.

In an interview with ANI, Mahajan highlighted that adequate investment in healthcare not only ensures public health but also generates numerous jobs, contributing to the target of a five trillion-dollar economy. Similarly, Raj Prakash Vyas of Cadila Pharmaceuticals appealed for substantial support for pharmaceutical research and innovation during this budget session.

Anubha Taneja Mukherjee from the Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group pointed out the disparity in GST rates for essential medicines and equipment, calling for a reduction to alleviate financial burdens on patients. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the Halwa ceremony, signifying the culmination of the budget preparation process.

(With inputs from agencies.)