India’s Medical Tourism on the Rise: Budget 2025 Paves the Way
New delhi, 13th April : India’s medical tourism sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by affordability, quality healthcare, and strategic government support. The Union Budget 2025 has made significant provisions to strengthen this sector, positioning India as a global hub for medical and wellness travel.
A Booming Sector Backed by Policy
India currently ranks among the top global destinations for medical tourism, thanks to advanced medical technology, skilled professionals, and cost-effective treatment. With global healthcare seekers increasingly looking eastward, Budget 2025 responds with concrete steps to support this momentum.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman allocated ₹98,311 crore to the healthcare sector, with clear focus areas including infrastructure, medical education, and international patient services
Key Budget Highlights Supporting Medical Tourism
10,000 new medical seats to be created in 2025, aiming for 75,000 additional seats over five years.
Establishment of 200 district-level daycare cancer centers for better accessibility to oncology care.
Promotion of the ‘Heal in India’ initiative in collaboration with the private sector.
Streamlining of medical visa processes to ease travel for international patients.
‘Heal in India’: Making Healthcare a Global Export
The Budget 2025 reaffirms India’s commitment to the ‘Heal in India’ initiative, which promotes India as a global destination for wellness and medical care. This includes public-private partnerships, digital patient support systems, and upgraded infrastructure to cater to international patients.
Voices from the Industry
Leaders across the healthcare ecosystem have welcomed the budget’s emphasis on medical tourism:
Dr. Satish Chandra Mishra, CEO of Gloabl Wellness Firm :
“The push for promoting medical tourism under the 'Heal in India' initiative is a strategic move to elevate India's position as a global healthcare destination. By easing visa processes and partnering with the private sector, India can attract more international patients, benefiting both our healthcare system and economy.”
Ajay Agrawal , CEO of Hotel Industry:
“The government's focus on infrastructure and relaxed visa norms will strengthen India's role in global healthcare. But to remain competitive, investment in seamless patient experiences and world-class facilities must concern
Looking Ahea
With rising demand from countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, India stands at the cusp of a medical tourism boom. The 2025 budget not only strengthens domestic capacity but also leverages India’s soft power in global health.
As long as policy and industry continue to align, India’s healthcare services are set to become one of its most impactful exports.
