With the number of cancer cases steadily rising in India, the need for affordable and accessible treatment has never been greater. According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data, more than 14 lakh new cancer cases were reported in 2023, with nearly 100 out of every one lakh people diagnosed annually. Against this backdrop, health experts have welcomed the government’s recent decision to waive basic customs duty on 17 essential cancer drugs, calling it a ray of hope for patients.
Dr. Arun Kumar Giri, director – Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, said that while the budget announcement is significant, its real impact will be felt only when patients experience tangible benefits. “Pharmacies and hospitals are already adjusting prices, and patients are hopeful that the relief will soon reach them,” he said.
Dr. Puneet Gupta, chairman – Oncology Services at Asian Hospital, noted that the announcement coincides with World Cancer Day, observed this year under the theme ‘United by Unique’, which underscores the importance of personalised, patient-centric care. “When patients can access medicines without delay or financial stress, their chances of recovery improve significantly,” he explained. He added that the policy change would allow hospitals to plan treatments more effectively and ensure that critical therapies reach those who need them most.
Dr. Gupta further pointed out that the burden of cancer treatment is increasing in rural areas and smaller towns, where many patients lack insurance coverage. He said that measures such as duty waivers, along with expanded detection and treatment facilities in government hospitals, could go a long way in controlling the disease and saving lives.
Dr. Jaipalreddy, consultant – Surgical Oncology at Jupiter Hospital, Pune, said the budget announcement is part of a broader effort to strengthen healthcare access across the country. “Along with these exemptions, investments in regional healthcare hubs and the training of caregivers will make cancer care more efficient,” he said. “Patients will benefit not only from affordable medicines but also from better support throughout their treatment journey.”
Dr. Vineet Malhotra, head of Urology and Director at VNA Hospital, highlighted the impact of the price cuts on specialised care. “Several cancer treatments depend on imported or rare drugs that were previously prohibitively expensive,” he said. “Reducing import duties makes these therapies more affordable and ensures that patients receive the right treatment on time. This is a major step toward easing both financial and health-related burdens.”
Dr. Arun added that the decision to reduce prices of life-saving cancer drugs aligns with the goal of providing patient-focused and accessible cancer care. For families battling cancer, he said, the move represents more than a policy change—it offers renewed hope for better care and a more secure future.
Meanwhile, financial experts believe the move could also have a positive impact on health insurance coverage. With lower drug prices, insurers may find it easier to cover treatment costs, thereby reducing patients’ out-of-pocket expenses, Dr. Arun noted. Policyholders who previously faced high co-payments for imported or specialty drugs may now benefit from broader coverage and fewer claim rejections, potentially encouraging more patients to seek timely treatment without financial strain.
