India's 2016-2017 budget reflects a mirage for universal health
Dr Sandeep Pandey and Bobby Ramakant, CNS
India's draft National Health Policy 2015 was riddled with privatisation bid and it is no surprise that 2016-2017 budget too takes that agenda forward. Also earlier this month Indian government indicated its intent to exit from hospital 'sector' (along with Air India). The vision of universal healthcare coverage - which leaves no one behind - can only be achieved from robust and well-funded public health system which is not running on cost-to-cost or for-profit motives. This is why privatisation of public health system is not only weakening it but also jeopardizing access to healthcare for most in need.
