Health experts have welcomed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitarman’s establishment of cancer care centers in all Indian districts and the announcement of custom discounts for 36 life -saving medicines.

The Finance Minister’s announcement includes 5% concessional duties proposed on these drugs, as well as full exemption from customs duties for their manufacturing.

“Basic customs exemption on 36 life-saving drugs and concessional rates on six more are an important step to reduce the cost of treatment for patients suffering from cancer, rare diseases and chronic diseases. CEO of Ruby Hall Clinic Said that the program is a progressive step, which expands access to the drugs required for those in financial crisis.

13 And with patient aid programs, the new initiative aims to benefit the disadvantaged patients.

In February 2024, the government reduced GST (Goods and Services Tax) with three major cancer medicines: Tasteuzumab Deruxtekan, Osimrtinib and Duravalumba. Health experts are saying that this step should be extended to advanced cancer treatment equipment such as radiotherapy machines and robotics along with targeted medical drugs, most of which are approximately 37% in customs.

Cancer care center in every district

The government will set up cancer care centers in all Indian districts to provide easy access to cancer treatment across the country.

The latest declaration is in India’s background in which the occurrence of increasing cancer occurs. Cancer researchers recently stated that the cases of breast cancer and their economic impact are expected to increase to a large extent with an annual increase of 5.6%in India.

“Establishment of cancer care centers at the district level is a welcome step. These centers will provide facilities for cancer chemotherapy/immunotherapy and care operations for various types of cancer,” Dr. Shyam Aggarwal, Vice President, Society of Medical and Pediatric oncology said. ,

Senior Director of Medical Oncology, Dr. Nilesh Rohatgi, Fortis Memorial Gurgaon said that this is a major step towards creating a positive effect. If these centers are digitally connected and guidelines treatment has improved the results.

The Finance Minister also announced the expansion of medical education schemes with 10,000 new seats in medical colleges and 75,000 seats in the next five years. The Center will also ensure that primary health centers get full broadband connectivity.

“We welcome the announcement of setting up a daycare cancer centers in all district hospitals within the next three years, and 75,000 medical seats in the next five years. Planned to present more than 10,000 medical college seats in FY 26 in the year 26. There is an important step towards accessing and strengthening and plans to strengthen health care.