Media Release
Bengaluru, Mar 6: Dr Sudarshan Ballal, chairman of Manipal Hospitals, has lauded the Karnataka Budget 2026-27, describing it as a balanced approach to strengthening the state’s healthcare ecosystem. Giving the budget a 7/10 performance rating for the healthcare sector, he highlighted the government's emphasis on preventive care, infrastructure expansion, and digital transformation.
Targeted public health interventions
Dr Ballal noted that the reported 24% reduction in maternal mortality under the 'Mission Zero Preventable Maternal Death' initiative reflects the success of targeted interventions and continuous audit systems. He further commended programmes such as 'Anaemia Muktha Poushtika Karnataka' and the expansion of neonatal and nutrition services, which demonstrate a clear focus on early-life health.
Significant boost for Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka
The government’s decision to revise treatment package rates under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka scheme using HBP-2022 rates was identified as a particularly significant move. Supported by an additional Rs 400 crore allocation, this revision is expected to improve access to quality care for economically vulnerable populations and encourage better participation from private healthcare providers.
Infrastructure and structural reforms
The budget has earmarked Rs 900 crore for strengthening health facilities, upgrading emergency and trauma care services, and expanding dialysis centres. Notable additions include a new 450-bed hospital in Karwar and a much-needed 1,000-bed organ transplant facility.
Dr Ballal also welcomed structural reforms such as the introduction of a public health cadre and the digitisation of services through the 'Samasta' mobile application. These initiatives are expected to improve governance and data-driven decision-making.
"Overall, the budget signals a strong commitment to improving access, affordability, and quality of healthcare in Karnataka. Continued collaboration between government and private healthcare providers will be essential to translate these investments into measurable health outcomes for citizens," Dr Ballal stated.