Budget Reaction 2024-25_ Healthcare_Dr Raj Nagarkar, MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC)
“The exemption of customs duty on cancer medicines is a significant step towards making healthcare more accessible and affordable. This will help patients access quality cancer care and will reduce financial burden on patients. However, custom duty on Radiation Therapy equipment and PET/CT scan equipment which are not manufactured in India should also have been exempted. Duty on these equipment eventually make patient care more expensive.
We also were expecting announcements on strengthening of public healthcare initiatives, particularly rural. Every section of the society deserves the best quality healthcare. On one hand we talk about heart transplantation and CAR T Cells therapy while on the other hand, the basic requirements for cancer care and cardiac care are missing. Those opportunities should have been created. As an Oncologist, I feel that the Government needs to look toward high end treatments like Radiation Therapy, and Bone Marrow Transplant and make these within the reach of the common man.
The government’s employment-linked schemes are commendable. This year’s budget has put significant focus on employment generation and skill development which will ensure that the youth remain more focused and work towards the country’s growth,” says Dr Raj Nagarkar, MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC).
Established in 2007 by Dr Raj Nagarkar, HCGMCC – Nashik is Central India’s first NABH-accredited facility. With over 50 consultant oncologists, 900 staff members and a 275-bed capacity, HCGMCC is a leading institution, offering holistic cancer treatment. Specializing in surgical, radiation and medical oncology, the centre has conducted 65,000 surgeries, including 1,000 plus robotic-assisted procedures. Patient-centric and multidisciplinary, HCGMCC recommends treatments to individual needs. Beyond clinical excellence, the centre’s financial aid programs underscore its commitment to accessibility and community well-being, redefining cancer care in the pursuit of a cancer-free future.
