India’s medical tourism market is projected to reach $13 billion by 2026, attracting patients from around the world seeking affordable, world-class healthcare and holistic wellness treatments. From advanced cancer treatments to traditional Ayurveda retreats, India is revolutionizing global healthcare travel.
This article explores how the Indian government is driving this transformation and what it means for international patients.
India as a Global Medical Tourism Hub
India’s healthcare and wellness sectors offer a unique combination of:
- World-Class Hospitals – Equipped with cutting-edge technology at significantly lower costs than Western countries. Click here
- Renowned Doctors & Surgeons – India has some of the world’s top oncologists, cardiologists, and robotic surgeons. Click here
- Holistic Healing & Ayurveda – As the birthplace of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, India is an ideal destination for integrated wellness programs.
- Government Support & Visa Ease – Special Medical Visas (M-Visa) and e-Visa facilities simplify travel for international patients.
Indian Government’s Initiatives for Medical & Wellness Tourism
Ayushman Bharat & Digital Health Infrastructure
- Strengthening healthcare accessibility for both domestic and international patients.
- Expansion of digital health records under the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) for seamless treatment history access.
- Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA ID) enable international patients to connect with Indian doctors before traveling.
- Establishment of over 200 AYUSH wellness centers offering Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy treatments.
- Government-backed Ayurveda and Yoga retreats attract wellness tourists from regions such as the US, UAE, and Europe.
‘Heal in India’ Initiative
- Aims to position India as a leading global medical tourism destination.
- Promotes medical value travel (MVT) under a dedicated ‘Heal in India’ campaign.
- Targets over 50 countries with specialized medical tourism packages.
- Government-backed online portal connects foreign patients with Indian hospitals before travel.
- Showcases India’s highly skilled doctors and medical workforce on a global platform.
- Encourages Indian healthcare professionals to work internationally, strengthening India’s reputation as a hub for medical expertise.
Leading Medical Treatments Attracting International Patients
- Cancer Treatment – Advanced robotic surgery, proton therapy, and immunotherapy at significantly reduced costs.
- Cardiac Surgery – India is a global leader in bypass surgery and heart transplants.
- Orthopedic & Spine Care – High-quality joint replacement surgeries with top-tier specialists.
- Ayurveda & Alternative Medicine – Increasing demand for Ayurvedic detox programs, stress relief therapies, and longevity treatments.
- Fertility & IVF Treatments – India offers high success rates in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) at competitive prices.
To know more about treatments Click here.
Government Support & Policies for Medical Tourism Growth
- Expansion of Medical Visa (M-Visa) & e-Visa – Faster approvals and extended stays for foreign patients.
- Medical Tourism Board – Active promotion of India as a preferred destination for medical treatment in key markets, including Gulf countries, Africa, and the UK.
- Tax Incentives for Hospitals & AYUSH Centers – Encouraging investments in world-class medical and wellness infrastructure.
To plan a Medical trip to India here is a step-by-step Guide. Click here.
India’s Role in the Future of Global Healthcare
With state-of-the-art hospitals, renowned specialists, ancient healing therapies, and strong government support, India is on track to becoming one of the world’s leading destinations for high-quality, cost-effective healthcare.
International patients seeking advanced medical treatments or holistic wellness programs can benefit from India’s expertise and affordability, making it an attractive choice for medical tourism.
Indian Government’s Plans for Wellness and Medical Tourism