New Delhi, Feb 1 (NationPress) On Sunday, the Government announced plans to eliminate customs duties on 17 medications for cancer and seven for rare diseases. Additionally, a proposal to construct a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in North India aims to enhance mental healthcare across the nation.

During the presentation of the ninth Union Budget 2026 in Parliament, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed measures to support patients suffering from cancer and rare diseases.

“The basic customs duty on 17 drugs and medicines will be removed to help lower treatment expenses,” stated the Finance Minister.

“Furthermore, seven additional rare diseases will be included under duty exemptions for the personal importation of drugs, medicines, and special medical foods used in cancer treatment, thereby broadening financial assistance for patients in need of specialized therapies,” she added.

Sitharaman highlighted the government's commitment to mental health by proposing the establishment of a NIMHANS 2 in North India.

Currently, NIMHANS operates solely in Bengaluru and stands as India's premier center for psychiatric care and neuroscience research.

Since its inception, NIMHANS has been pivotal in shaping mental health education, advancing research, and delivering specialized treatment nationwide.

The government will also focus on upgrading the National Mental Health Institutes situated in Ranchi and Tezpur.

“This initiative stems from the pressing need for dedicated mental health facilities throughout North India,” said Sitharaman.

Additionally, the Finance Minister proposed enhancing and expanding district hospitals' capabilities by 50 percent through the establishment of emergency and trauma care centers.

This initiative aims to empower vulnerable populations to access mental health and trauma care in rural regions.

Two new schemes designed to uplift the Divyangjan community were also proposed: the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana and the Divyang Sahara Yojana.

The Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana seeks to ensure dignified livelihood options through industry-specific and customized training tailored for each Divyang group, Sitharaman noted.

The Divyang Sahara Yojana aims to support the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) in enhancing production of assistive devices, investing in R&D, and integrating AI technologies.

It will also bolster PM Divyasha Kendras and facilitate the establishment of Assistive Technology Marts as modern retail-style outlets, the Finance Minister concluded.