Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda reviewed the progress of major healthcare initiatives announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, focusing on their timely implementation and measurable outcomes.
Focus on Emergency Care and Health Workforce
The government plans to strengthen 160 district hospitals by March 2027 to expand emergency and trauma care capacity by 50%. Additionally, it aims to add 1 lakh Allied Health Professionals over the next five years across 10 key disciplines.
As per the PIB press release, the government is also advancing the ₹500-crore Biopharma SHAKTI initiative to establish a network of more than 1,000 accredited clinical trial sites, strengthening India’s biopharmaceutical research ecosystem.
Drug Regulation, Mental Health and Medical Tourism
Meanwhile, plans are underway to strengthen the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) through a dedicated scientific review cadre. The government is also progressing with the proposed NIMHANS-II, a 1,000-bed institute, while upgrading mental health institutions in Ranchi and Tezpur.
Furthermore, the government plans to develop five Regional Medical Hubs in partnership with the private sector to promote medical value tourism. Nadda stressed close coordination and regular monitoring to ensure the timely implementation of these initiatives.