12. Biopharma SHAKTI and Holistic Healthcare

The Union Budget 2026-27 introduces a landmark strategy titled Biopharma SHAKTI (Strategy for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) to shift India\'s health sector from conventional pharma to high-value biologics and biosimilars. By integrating mental health, geriatric care, and traditional medicine, the budget aims to build a comprehensive and resilient healthcare ecosystem. • Biopharma SHAKTI Mission: With an outlay of ₹10,000 crore over five years, the mission aims to capture 5% of the global biopharmaceutical market. It focuses on indigenous production of vaccines, antibody treatments, and gene therapies. Key pillars include establishing 3 new NIPERs, upgrading 7 existing ones, and creating a network of 1,000+ accredited clinical trial sites. • Workforce Revolution in Allied Health: To address the shortage of skilled support staff, the budget proposes adding 100,000 Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) across 10 disciplines like radiology and anesthesia. Furthermore, a Geriatric Care Ecosystem will be created by training 1.5 lakh multi-skilled caregivers aligned with NSQF standards to support India’s aging population. • Regional Medical Hubs for Medical Tourism: A new scheme will support states in establishing five Regional Medical Hubs in partnership with the private sector. These integrated complexes will combine allopathic and AYUSH treatments, diagnostics, and research to position India as a premier destination for Medical Value Tourism (MVT). • Expanding AYUSH and Global Leadership: To capitalize on the global demand for Ayurveda, the government will set up 3 new All India Institutes of Ayurveda and upgrade the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar. Upgradation of AYUSH pharmacies and drug testing labs will focus on evidence-based research and international certification standards. • Mental Health and Emergency Infrastructure: Addressing the regional gap in specialized psychiatric care, the budget proposes NIMHANS-2 in North India and the upgradation of institutes in Ranchi and Tezpur as Regional Apex Institutions. Additionally, district hospitals will see a 50% increase in emergency capacity through new dedicated Trauma Care Centres. Key Definitions • Biologics: Complex medicines derived from living organisms (human, animal, or microorganisms) used for treating cancer, autoimmune diseases, and chronic conditions. • Biosimilars: Highly similar versions of biological medicines that have already been authorized for use; they offer more affordable treatment options once patents expire. • Allied Health Professionals (AHPs): Health workers (other than doctors/nurses) who provide diagnostic, technical, and therapeutic services, such as lab technicians and radiologists.• Medical Value Tourism (MVT): Travel across international borders for the purpose of receiving medical treatments, wellness services, or surgical procedures. Constitutional and Legal Provisions • Article 47 (DPSP): Mandates the State to regard the improvement of public health as among its primary duties. • Entry 6, List II (State List): Public health and sanitation; hospitals and dispensaries are primarily state subjects, necessitating the proposed \'Scheme to support States.\' • National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021: The regulatory framework under which the new 100,000 AHPs will be trained and certified. • National Mental Health Act, 2017: Provides the legal basis for rights-based mental healthcare, which the new NIMHANS-2 and regional apex centers will help implement. Additional Keypoints for Analysis • Clinical Trial Strengthening: The 1,000+ accredited sites under Biopharma SHAKTI will move India from a \'pharmacy of the world\' to a \'research lab of the world.\' • Geriatric Focus: Recognizing the \'Silver Economy,\' the 1.5 lakh caregiver target is the first major budgetary move toward structured elder care in India. • CDSCO Strengthening: To reduce approval timelines, a dedicated scientific review cadre will be created within the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation. Conclusion The 2026-27 healthcare roadmap represents a strategic pivot toward high-end medical technology and specialized workforce development. By balancing the \'Shakti\' of modern Biopharma with the global soft power of \'Ayurveda,\' the government is addressing both the economic potential of the sector and the urgent public health needs of mental wellness and emergency response. UPSC Relevance • GS Paper II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health; Government policies and interventions for development. • GS Paper III: Science and Technology- developments and their applications; Indigenization of technology (Biopharma). • Prelims: Outlay of Biopharma SHAKTI; Number of new AHPs and caregivers; Locations for NIMHANS-2 and regional mental health upgrades; WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre location (Jamnagar).