Budget reaction: Dr Prem Kumar Nair, Medical Director, Amrita Hospitals, Kochi

This is a very good and bold Budget. It has provided substantial allocation for healthcare, which is a very positive step in the right direction for healthcare services in India. The Budget would help address the gap in the healthcare infrastructure as well as in the delivery of healthcare services in both urban and rural areas. Setting up of 28,000 wellness centres across the country, establishing integrated public healthcare labs in 11 states, setting up critical care hospital blocks, earmarking funds for COVID vaccine, strengthening integrated health information portal in all states, regional research platforms and four new National Institute of Virology will help the healthcare industry combat emerging viral infections effectively. The overall thrust of the Budget is on strengthening the preventive and curative aspects of healthcare, which is critical in advancing the health of our people.