Parliamentary Committee Calls for Increased Healthcare Funding
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health has raised concerns over the insufficient allocation of funds for healthcare in the Union Budget. The committee, in its report, has urged the government to increase spending on healthcare to meet global standards. The committee’s recommendations come as the country faces a significant shortage of healthcare infrastructure and personnel.
According to the report, the allocation of ₹95,957 crore for healthcare in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 is a mere 1.89% of the total Union Budget. This is below the target of 2.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) set by the National Health Policy. The committee has emphasized the need for increased funding to improve the healthcare system in the country.
The committee has also highlighted the shortage of healthcare personnel, recommending the filling of 428 vacancies in the Ministry of Health. This shortage has been a long-standing issue, with many healthcare professionals leaving the country due to poor working conditions and lack of resources. The committee’s recommendation is a step in the right direction to address this issue and improve the healthcare infrastructure.
The committee’s concerns are not unfounded. The healthcare system in India is facing numerous challenges, including a shortage of hospital beds, medical equipment, and trained healthcare professionals. The country also faces a significant burden of diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and dengue fever. The lack of adequate funding has made it difficult for the government to provide quality healthcare services to the millions of people who need them.
The committee’s report has also highlighted the need for increased focus on preventive healthcare. The committee has recommended the establishment of community health centers and the strengthening of primary healthcare services. This is essential to prevent the spread of diseases and to reduce the burden on the healthcare system.
The committee’s recommendations have been welcomed by healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups. Dr. Srinivas, a leading healthcare expert, said, “The committee’s report is a step in the right direction. The government needs to increase funding for healthcare to improve the healthcare infrastructure and services. The committee’s recommendations on filling vacancies in the Ministry of Health are also essential to address the shortage of healthcare personnel.”
The committee’s report has also been welcomed by patients and their families. Ms. Rukmini, a patient who has been battling cancer, said, “I am grateful to the committee for highlighting the need for increased funding for healthcare. The government needs to provide quality healthcare services to patients like me who are fighting life-threatening diseases.”
In conclusion, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health has rightly raised concerns over the insufficient allocation of funds for healthcare in the Union Budget. The committee’s recommendations are a step in the right direction to improve the healthcare infrastructure and services in the country. The government needs to increase funding for healthcare to meet global standards and to provide quality healthcare services to the millions of people who need them.
