Association seeks higher public investment to address gaps in access, workforce and infrastructure
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The Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) has requested increased healthcare funding in the Union Budget 2026–27. The association stated that this should address gaps in infrastructure, workforce capacity and equitable access to affordable services across India.
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the government allocated approximately ₹90,658 crore last year, representing a 12.5 per cent increase from the previous budget. AHPI stated that public health spending remains below 2.2 per cent of India’s GDP, which does not meet the National Health Policy target of 2.5 per cent and remains below global benchmarks for developing nations.
The association highlighted the rise in both communicable and non communicable diseases and increasing requirements for specialty and preventive care. AHPI stated that the upcoming budget should focus on strengthening the health system in rural and underserved areas to support universal health coverage.
Data from the National Health Accounts shows that households account for nearly 48 per cent of all health expenditure out of pocket. AHPI described this as a factor necessitating increased public spending. The association stated that government investment should support expansion of medical and nursing education, adult immunisation, mental health and geriatric services, emergency care and telemedicine. AHPI also recommended restructuring GST on healthcare services and modifying insurance regulations to improve affordability and coverage.
Dr Girdhar Gyani, Director General, AHPI, said, “To secure a healthier future for India, it is imperative to invest in robust health systems today. We urge the government to substantially enhance healthcare funding in Budget 2026–27, laying the foundation for world-class and inclusive care for every citizen. Expanding infrastructure, strengthening the workforce, and enabling equitable access to quality services, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, are critical to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the nation.”
Dr Sunil K Khetarpal, Deputy Director General, AHPI, said, “India’s healthcare demands are evolving faster than our current systems can support. The upcoming budget must accelerate investments in technology-driven care, quality assurance, and hospital capacity-building. Strengthening regulatory frameworks and enabling long-term financing for healthcare providers will be essential to create a resilient, future-ready ecosystem capable of serving a billion-plus population.”
AHPI stated that incentives for private sector participation in infrastructure development in tier 2 and tier 3 cities will be necessary to support public sector initiatives. The association added that with India’s doctor patient ratio not yet aligned to World Health Organization recommendations, the budget offers an opportunity to improve service availability, support preparedness for future health emergencies, and expand access to care.