Healthcare is a multi-layered segment involving pharmaceuticals, hospitals, diagnostics, medical technology and public health, among others — and each has its own expectation from the Union Budget on February 1. A common thread, though, is the demand for an increase in government spending on health, to the promised 2.5 per cent of GDP, if not more.

The pharmaceutical industry is looking for tax sops to support research initiatives, to move up the value chain; while med-tech seeks redressal of certain tax imbalances it faces, besides funds to support indigenous production. Hospitals are seeking support for prevention-linked interventions, besides rationalised GST on advanced medical equipment and diagnostics.

Published on January 26, 2026