Introduction: A New Era for Indian Healthcare

In a landmark announcement during the Union Budget 2026, the Government of India has unveiled a strategic blueprint to transform the nation into a global epicenter for Medical Value Tourism (MVT). Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented a comprehensive plan that integrates modern medical infrastructure with traditional wisdom, aiming to boost the AYUSH sector while generating significant employment opportunities.

Key Budget Highlights
Medical Hubs

5 New Regional Hubs (PPP Model)

Ayurveda Expansion

3 New All India Institutes of Ayurveda

Global Research

Upgrade of WHO Centre, Jamnagar

Focus Area

Medical Value Tourism & Research

Regional Medical Hubs: The Vision
  • Infrastructure Push: The government will support States in establishing five Regional Medical Hubs. These will be developed in partnership with the private sector.
  • Integrated Care: These facilities are designed as "all-in-one" healthcare complexes. They will house medical services, educational institutes, and research wings under a single roof.
  • Holistic Services: Each hub will feature dedicated AYUSH Centres and facilitation desks for Medical Value Tourism to assist international patients.
  • Economic Impact: These hubs are projected to create massive employment for doctors, nurses, and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs).
Strengthening the AYUSH Ecosystem

Recognizing the post-COVID global surge in demand for holistic wellness, the Budget proposes specific measures to standardize and expand traditional medicine:

  • New Institutes: Establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda to lead in quality clinical care and advanced education.
  • Quality Control: A significant upgrade for AYUSH pharmacies and Drug Testing Laboratories to ensure certification standards match international requirements.
  • Farmers & Youth: The rising demand for AYUSH products is creating a value chain that directly benefits farmers growing medicinal plants and youth involved in processing.
Official Statement & Global Strategy

The Finance Minister emphasized India's "Soft Power" through Yoga and Ayurveda. A critical component of this global outreach includes the upgradation of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar. This facility will be fortified to lead evidence-based research and global training, cementing India's position as a trusted destination for holistic health.

Source Information

Information based on the official press release from the Ministry of AYUSH via PIB.

Click here for the Official Press Release

Union Budget 2026: India Launches 5 Regional Medical Hubs & 3 New Ayurveda Institutes - Image 1

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the main goal of the Regional Medical Hubs?
The primary goal is to boost Medical Value Tourism (MVT) by providing integrated healthcare, education, and research facilities, making it easier for domestic and international patients to access world-class care.
Q. How many new Ayurveda Institutes were announced in the 2026 Budget?
The Government has announced the establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda to expand quality education and clinical research.
Q. Which existing facility is being upgraded for global research?
The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, will be upgraded to strengthen evidence-based research and global awareness.
Q. How does this budget benefit the agricultural sector?
The growing global demand for AYUSH products increases the requirement for medicinal plants, directly benefiting farmers engaged in their cultivation and youth involved in value addition.