New Delhi’s health landscape is set for a transformative leap with the latest Union Budget for 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Prioritizing traditional systems like Ayurveda alongside modern medicine, the budget introduces groundbreaking initiatives to elevate medical tourism and healthcare quality across India.
Professor P.K. Prajapati, Director of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), has showered praise on these measures, calling them a historic milestone. In an exclusive interview, he highlighted how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision has catalyzed unprecedented growth in Ayurveda since 2014.
“The provisions for Ayurveda, quality herbal medicines, and medical tourism are spot-on with current needs,” Prof. Prajapati asserted. He pointed to the approval of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda and AIIMS, which will enhance treatment accessibility and standards nationwide.
India’s appeal as a global healthcare hub is undeniable, drawing patients from abroad for diverse therapies including Unani, Ayurveda, and Homeopathy. Backed by scientific research, these systems now receive focused budgetary support for expansion and innovation.
The budget emphasizes holistic wellness, linking physical, mental, and spiritual health through Ayurveda-specific programs. It also greenlights three new National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, upgrades seven existing ones, and plans 1,000 clinical trial sites countrywide.
District hospitals and emergency wards will see major upgrades, while five regional medical hubs will spearhead services, research, and training. Mental health infrastructure gets a major push with new facilities, positioning India as a medical tourism powerhouse under PM Modi’s leadership.
Prof. Prajapati commended the tireless efforts of the AYUSH Ministry and Finance Minister Sitharaman, noting that this budget will fortify Ayurvedic education, research, and global outreach.