Guwahati: The Union Budget 2026?27 on Sunday proposed major healthcare and welfare initiatives, including customs duty waivers on key drugs for cancer and rare diseases, the establishment of a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in North India, and new schemes to empower Divyangjan with dignified livelihood opportunities.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, presenting the ninth Union Budget in Parliament, said the government will exempt basic customs duty on 17 cancer medicines and seven drugs for rare diseases. “These measures are aimed at reducing treatment costs and providing financial relief to patients who require specialised therapies,” she noted. The exemptions will cover personal imports of medicines, drugs, and foods used in cancer care, extending support to those with complex medical needs.
On mental healthcare, Sitharaman announced the creation of a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in North India. Currently based in Bengaluru, NIMHANS is India’s premier centre for psychiatric care and neuroscience research, playing a central role in mental health education, research, and specialised treatment nationwide. In addition, the Budget proposes upgrading the National Mental Health Institutes in Ranchi and Tezpur to strengthen regional capacities. “These steps address the shortage of dedicated mental-health facilities across North India,” she added.
To further improve healthcare access, the government plans to expand emergency and trauma care in district hospitals by 50 per cent. Sitharaman said this initiative will empower vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas, by providing better access to mental health and trauma services.
The Budget also focuses on supporting Divyangjan through two schemes. The Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana will offer industry-relevant, customised training for each divyang group, ensuring dignified livelihood opportunities. Meanwhile, the Divyang Sahara Yojana aims to strengthen the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) by scaling up assistive device production, investing in R&D and AI integration, and upgrading PM Divyasha Kendras. The scheme will also set up Assistive Technology Marts, modern retail-style centres to improve access to assistive devices across the country.
Through these initiatives, the Budget seeks to reduce healthcare costs, expand mental health infrastructure, and enhance livelihood opportunities for Divyangjan, marking a comprehensive approach to inclusive healthcare and welfare.