Dr. Mandeep Singh Basu, Director of Jagat Pharma & Dr. Basu Eye Hospital, emphasizes the need for an evolving healthcare sector in India, with a focus on growth and self-reliance. He highlights the importance of creating supportive ecosystems and policies for the pharmaceutical industry to achieve these goals.

Dr. Basu advocates for integrating artificial intelligence into the healthcare system to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care. He also stresses the necessity of making Ayurveda more accessible to the general population, which requires increased funding for research and development (R&D) and infrastructure. Such investments would improve medical outcomes, elevate quality standards, and contribute to self-reliance.

Expanding Ayurvedic education and integration is another key area Dr. Basu addresses. He suggests establishing more Ayurvedic colleges across India, similar to the AIIMS centers that have initiated several Ayurveda Institutes of Teaching & Research. Greater funding for R&D will enable comprehensive case studies, clinical trials, and new drug developments, enriching the Ayurvedic knowledge base and advancing the science of Ayurveda.

Dr. Basu also highlights the need to expand medical services in tier-1 and tier-2 cities to bridge the gap between urban and semi-urban areas. This expansion is crucial for equitable healthcare access across the country.

In terms of budget expectations for the Ayurvedic industry, Dr. Basu outlines several key areas. He advocates for tax breaks and subsidies to provide financial incentives for Ayurvedic product manufacturers, promoting industry growth. Allocating funds for standardization and quality control will enhance the credibility and global acceptance of Ayurvedic products. Financial support for the promotion and marketing of these products, both domestically and internationally, is vital.

Additionally, policies and funding to facilitate the integration of Ayurveda with mainstream healthcare systems are necessary for a holistic health approach. Support for exports, such as easing regulatory requirements and providing marketing assistance in foreign markets, is also important. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns should be funded to educate people about Ayurveda's benefits and encourage its use for preventive and curative healthcare.

Dr. Basu envisions the 2024 budget as a pivotal opportunity to create a healthy and sustainable ecosystem. This ecosystem would contribute to individual health and national growth while preserving the ancient spirit of therapeutic traditions.