The Finance Ministry has allocated a large share of the Union budget 2021 for strengthening the healthcare system in the country, a need highlighted by the pandemic. The Finance Minister has announced several provisions and funds to support the various healthcare schemes initiated for women and children. The Union Ministry has planned to spend Rs. 2,23,864 crores on health and well-being in the upcoming year. The sum is inclusive of direct as well as indirect provisions towards the healthcare sector through different ministries. Some of the important provisions in the budget include: Rs.
60,030 crores for safe drinking water and sanitation Rs. 2700 crores for nutritional support Increased funds to medical science and research organizations like ICMR (Rs. 4,062 crores) and the Ministry of AYUSH (Rs. 2970 crores) Rs. 350,000 crores for COVID-19 vaccine development and vaccination programs…
