By Vineet Aggarwal, COO, Paras Health
Prioritising healthcare infrastructure in Tier-2 cities in Budget 2026 is critical if we want to build a truly inclusive and resilient health system. Even today, a significant portion of India’s population living in Tier-2 regions must travel to metros for specialised treatment. This not only leads to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes but also imposes a heavy financial and emotional burden on families. Strengthening healthcare capacity in these cities will allow people to access high-quality care within their own communities, without the need for long-distance travel during vulnerable moments.
Investing in Tier-2 healthcare,whether through advanced diagnostic centres, specialised departments, digital health systems, or trained medical professionals,creates a stronger foundation for preventive, timely, and comprehensive care. It also improves patient confidence, encourages early health-seeking behaviour, and ensures continuity of treatment. By expanding care closer to where people live, we reduce out-of-pocket expenses, improve convenience, and elevate overall public health outcomes.
This focus will not only benefit patients but also reduce the load on metropolitan hospitals and strengthen regional medical ecosystems. Tier-2 cities have immense potential to become emerging healthcare hubs, especially with the support of technology, teleconsultation, and new-age healthcare delivery models. Budget 2026 is a strategic opportunity to accelerate this transition with targeted allocations, incentives, and public–private partnerships.
Building stronger healthcare systems in Tier-2 cities is ultimately an investment in equity, accessibility, and long-term national health security. When care becomes local, reliable, and available to all, we move closer to a healthier and more inclusive India.