India’s 2026 Budget Must Prioritize Prevention to Tackle Rising Chronic Diseases

India’s health system faces a growing challenge as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now dominate mortality rates. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and cancer strain households and hospitals alike. Experts argue that the 2026 Union Budget must shift focus toward prevention to rebalance the system and secure long-term growth.

Currently, India’s healthcare spending heavily favours hospital-based treatments, even though many illnesses could be prevented. Strengthening primary care through Ayushman Bharat’s Health and Wellness Centres is seen as the first step. These centres would serve as the frontline for early detection and health promotion.

A broader ‘Health in All Policies’ approach is also recommended. This would require cross-ministerial coordination to tackle environmental and social factors affecting health. For example, cleaner air policies or better nutrition programmes could reduce disease risks before they arise.

To tackle NCDs directly, annual screenings for adults over 30 and national registries for priority conditions are proposed. Cancer screening would receive special attention, with mission-style campaigns to improve early detection. Mental health and substance-use prevention would expand too, integrating counselling into schools and workplaces.

Digital tools and trained frontline workers are key to making this work. Investments in digital public infrastructure—like health records and telemedicine—would support prevention efforts. At the same time, smarter financing models could incentivise states to prioritise early care. Pilots for capitation or bundled payments under AB-PM-JAY might reward providers for keeping people healthy rather than just treating illness.

Shifting to prevention-led care could cut avoidable hospital visits, protect household savings, and boost workforce productivity. The proposed changes aim to reduce financial strain on families while strengthening India’s economic resilience. Success will depend on sustained funding, cross-sector collaboration, and effective use of technology.