Budget backs pharma R&D, nursing colleges, skilling in medical devices

A mission will be launched to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in the country by 2047, says Finance Minister

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget speech on Wednesday said 157 new nursing colleges will be set up to improve skilling and education in the health sector.

A new programme to promote research and innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken by centres of excellence. “We shall also encourage industry to invest in research and development in specific priority areas,” she said.

Facilities in the select labs of the state-run Indian Council of Medical Research will be available for research by public and private medical colleges for encouraging collaboration and innovation.

A mission will be launched to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in