HOPE AMIDST HESITATION?

The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2024-25 elicited a mixed response from healthcare sub-segments.

India's Interim Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has sparked a lively debate within the healthcare community. While applauding specific initiatives, many leaders call for a broader vision and increased budgetary allocation.

The unveiling of India's Interim Budget 2024-25 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has elicited a spectrum of reactions from healthcare leaders across the nation. While some laud the government's focus on preventive measures, medical education, and women's health, others voice concerns about insufficient budgetary allocations and the absence of a holistic healthcare strategy.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES GET THUMBS UP, WITH CAVEATS

The inclusion of HPV vaccination for girls aged 9-14 in the Ayushman Bharat scheme has met with enthusiastic approval. "This proactive initiative will significantly contribute to reducing the disease burden and improving healthcare in our nation," commends Dr Mayank Aggarwal, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Venkateshwar Hospitals, New Delhi. Dr Devavrat Arya, Senior Director at Max Hospital, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of spreading awareness about the vaccine's safety.

"This visionary step prioritizes public health through preventive measures against life-threatening diseases,” says Dr Nisha Bhatnagar, Medical Director of Infinite Fertility. Dr Shafiq AM, Co-founder of Trilife Hospital, agrees with this sentiment, calling it a “welcome move” to tackle a critical issue. However, Dr Digvijay Singh, Ophthalmologist and Director of Noble Eye Care, urges for more focus on preventive measures compared to other G20 nations.