On the agenda: Budget focuses on quality and reach of healthcare in India

It is hoped there is both a short- and long-term vision to make India a leader in the pharmaceutical sector beyond generic drug manufacture

The annual Budget is a bellwether indicating what the government of the day prioritises. The seven priorities laid out by the Finance Minister include reaching the last mile, and this can be a cornerstone of public health and equity. How this will play out in healthcare, particularly, given that the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which was intended for the poorest in the country, has only managed to serve about half the numbers it was planned for, is unclear. However, one specific call out in the Budget that indicates a commitment to equity is the mission aimed at sickle cell disease, a