India Strengthens Its Global Medical Tourism Position

India has long been recognised for its rich heritage of wellness and traditional healthcare. With the 2026 Union Budget, the government has given the sector a major boost, signalling its intent to make India a top global destination for medical tourism. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of five regional medical tourism hubs, designed to integrate medical services, education, research and patient-focused care within one location.

These hubs will be equipped with modern hospitals, advanced diagnostic centres, rehabilitation facilities and dedicated wellness centres, including those for AYUSH therapies. By combining traditional and modern healthcare, India aims to provide international patients with a seamless and holistic experience. The move is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities across healthcare, research, and allied services, further strengthening the nation’s medical infrastructure.

The government’s push also includes the creation of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda, which will focus on research, education and the promotion of India’s traditional healthcare systems on a global scale. This demonstrates India’s commitment not only to conventional medicine but also to holistic and preventive wellness.

What This Means for International Patients

Medical tourism is a growing trend where people travel abroad to access healthcare that may be expensive, unavailable, or less advanced in their home countries. India has already emerged as a preferred destination for this, attracting nearly two million international patients annually from countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, China, Russia, and the United States. Treatments range from general healthcare and wellness therapies to IVF, orthopaedic surgery, and specialised therapies.

The government’s introduction of the AYUSH Visa in 2023 has made it easier for foreign nationals to travel to India specifically for traditional healthcare treatments. With digital platforms streamlining appointments, consultations, and travel arrangements, India is gradually creating a seamless ecosystem for global patients.

The 2026 Budget strengthens this ecosystem, ensuring that medical hubs are not just centres of treatment but comprehensive destinations for wellness. Patients can access diagnostic services, post-operative care, rehabilitation, and even wellness tourism packages—all under one roof. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad are particularly well-positioned to serve as these medical hubs, combining world-class infrastructure with expert medical professionals.

By integrating AYUSH therapies with modern healthcare, India is also appealing to a growing international audience interested in preventive care and holistic wellness. This approach sets India apart from other medical tourism destinations, offering a unique blend of traditional practices and cutting-edge medicine.

A Boost for the Economy and Healthcare Sector

The development of these medical hubs is expected to have a far-reaching impact on India’s economy. By attracting international patients, the country can increase foreign exchange inflows and strengthen its position in the global healthcare market. Additionally, the expansion of hospitals, research facilities, and wellness centres will create new employment opportunities across various healthcare segments, including doctors, nurses, therapists, researchers, and administrative staff.

The government’s strategy also emphasises digital integration and patient convenience, ensuring that international visitors can access healthcare services with minimal hassle. This not only improves India’s global reputation but also positions it as a leader in medical value travel, where quality, affordability, and holistic wellness converge.

As India continues to innovate and invest in its medical tourism infrastructure, it is poised to become a global leader in healthcare travel. By blending modern medicine with traditional wellness therapies, the nation is offering international patients a unique and enriching healthcare experience while simultaneously boosting its economy and global standing.