India’s push for self-reliant healthcare got a big boost as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced major GST cuts to make medical services more affordable. In a video address to the nation, Modi highlighted how these reforms align with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, urging Indians to support homegrown industries.
Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare, praised the move as a step toward stronger medical self-reliance. “When we build our own medical capabilities, it cuts costs and makes healthcare accessible, fair, and sustainable for millions,” Chaudhry said. He pointed out India’s shift from relying on imported devices to creating innovative, affordable solutions at home.
At Aakash Healthcare, they already use Indian-made knee implants, showing how quality care can thrive with Swadeshi products. “PM Modi reminded us that India’s future depends on our own strengths,” Chaudhry added. “In healthcare, this means turning India into the Vishwa Chikitsalya—the world’s hospital—by healing our people with homegrown excellence.”
Chaudhry stressed that healthcare should anchor the Atmanirbhar Bharat movement, driven by Indian research, manufacturing, and trust. “Every choice we make starts this journey to a healthier, self-reliant India,” he said.
The reforms kick in today, September 22, bringing real relief to patients. Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), which represents 23 top research-driven pharma companies, called it a game-changer. “These GST changes will make healthcare cheaper and easier to access for every citizen,” Jain explained.
Most medicines, previously hit with 12% GST, now face just 5%. That’s a huge drop. Plus, 36 vital drugs for cancer, rare genetic diseases, and heart conditions get zero GST—completely tax-free. The GST Council also simplified taxes on health and life insurance premiums, glucometers for diabetes monitoring, and even corrective eyeglasses.
“These steps transform India’s healthcare scene,” Jain said. “They save money for patients, lighten the load on families, boost access to essential treatments, and strengthen overall healthcare security.” IPA promises to roll out these benefits quickly and clearly, pushing for affordable care for all.
Earlier, PM Modi explained the reforms as an ongoing process to meet India’s changing needs. Under the new system, tax slabs mainly stick to 5% and 18%, making most daily essentials cheaper. He listed examples like food items, medicines, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and health insurance—many now tax-free or at just 5% GST.
Modi noted that 99% of items once taxed at 12% have shifted to the 5% bracket, covering almost everything people use every day. These changes aim to ease burdens and support India’s growth in healthcare affordability and self-reliance.
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