[Editorial] Advancing health care: the engine of India's ambitions

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Source: The Lancet

Original: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)02636-4/fullt...

Published: 2026-01-20T19:00:01Z

India is embarking on a Viksit Bharat journey to become a developed country with upper middle income status by 2047, 100 years after independence[2]. The country has significant advantages to achieve this goal, including rapid economic growth, a young population (more than 65% are under 35), ongoing digital transformation, infrastructure development and urbanization[2]. In healthcare, Viksit Bharat aims to provide universal access to high-quality, affordable and comprehensive healthcare for all citizens[2]. Health reform includes strengthening public health, integrating services at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, increasing government investment and using digital technologies[4]. Key areas for improvement include the expansion of specialist facilities, telemedicine to address rural doctor shortages, mental health and geriatric care[1]. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat are critical to expanding the availability and accessibility of healthcare[2]. Health reform requires strong political will, leadership and decentralization with community participation in planning and accountability for health services[4].