Govt proposes Tk 41,908cr allocation for health sector

The government has proposed an allocation of Tk 41,908 crore for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in the fiscal year 2025–26. 

The development marks a slight increase from the Tk 41,407 crore allocated in the current 2024–25 fiscal year.

The announcement was made by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed during the national budget presentation broadcast on Bangladesh Television (BTV) on Monday.

Dr. Ahmed emphasized the government's commitment to bringing all citizens under universal healthcare coverage by 2030. To achieve this, the budget places special emphasis on expanding healthcare services, upgrading infrastructure, and recruiting skilled healthcare professionals.

To address existing workforce shortages in the sector, the recruitment of doctors, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, and health assistants has been expedited. A comprehensive plan has also been formulated to create additional necessary positions.

The upcoming budget proposes an additional allocation of Tk 4,166 crore to provide free medical care for the underprivileged population. Additionally, Tk 1,000 crore has been earmarked to strengthen the country’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).

To promote access to quality healthcare, the government has proposed reduced tariffs and duties on medical equipment imports for referral hospitals and all hospitals with over 50 beds.

Dr. Ahmed also highlighted the potential for creating a skilled workforce in the caregiving sector to meet international demand. This, he noted, could significantly boost foreign employment opportunities and remittance income. As part of this initiative, training programs for caregivers will be launched.

In addition, the government is considering the establishment of a Nurse Educator Training Centre and the introduction of a PhD program in nursing to provide international-standard training.