Sickle cell elimination program, new nursing colleges & emphasis on research: Push for healthcare

After the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday presented the union budget 2023-24, if we look at the healthcare industry, there has been major push for the sector.

New Nursing Colleges

In line with this vision of India@100 and Amrit Kaal, the Finance Minister announced establishment of  157 new nursing colleges in co-location with the existing 157 medical colleges, established since 2014.

Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission

Sitharaman also announced launch of Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission which will  entail awareness creation, universal screening of 7 crore people in the age group of 0-40 years in affected tribal areas, and counseling through collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments.

ICMR Labs available for R&D:

To promote research in medical sector and innovation, the Finance Minister said that facilities in select ICMR Labs will be made available for public and private medical college faculty and private sector R&D teams.

Research & Innovation in Pharma Sector:

A new programme to promote research and innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken up through centers of excellence, the Finance Minister announced. “We shall also encourage industry to invest in research and development in specific priority areas”, she added.

Dedicated multidisciplinary courses for medical devices:

Highlighting importance of futuristic medical technologies and high-end manufacturing in medical sector, Smt Sitharaman stated that dedicated multidisciplinary courses for medical devices will be supported in existing institutions to ensure availability of skilled manpower for futuristic medical technologies, high-end manufacturing and research.