Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the potential of visa-on-arrival facilitation to significantly boost medical travel to India. Speaking at the 22nd CII Annual Health Summit, he emphasized that the success of the &lsquo;Heal in India&rsquo; initiative depends on combining modern medicine with India&rsquo;s rich traditions of Ayurveda and holistic wellness.
&ldquo;India is on the verge of setting a global benchmark for quality healthcare. To realize this, strong leadership and collaboration among all stakeholders are essential,&rdquo; Goyal said. He noted the government&rsquo;s commitment to the sector, citing the doubling of medical colleges over the past decade and plans to expand medical seats further in the next five years.
The government is also working to ensure inclusive healthcare and a robust social security net. Initiatives such as providing sanitary pads at affordable prices for underprivileged women reflect this focus on well-being and accessibility. Goyal urged hospitals to collaborate in training at least 100,000 new nursing professionals to meet domestic demand and support the growing medical tourism sector.
He also emphasized the importance of balancing care for Indian patients with services for international medical travelers.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, stressed that India should harness the potential of Ayurveda as a core element of holistic healthcare. Hospitals are encouraged to integrate Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and wellness therapies alongside modern medical services to cater to high-end international clients seeking comprehensive and restorative care.
Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman of the CII Steering Group on Health, noted India&rsquo;s strategic position to emerge as a global medical tourism hub. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, added that medical tourism not only attracts international patients but also generates employment and creates opportunities across healthcare and allied sectors.

India Aims to Become Global Healthcare Hub

Visa-on-arrival and Ayurveda integration to boost medical tourism and domestic healthcare

India Aims to Become Global Healthcare Hub

Visa-on-arrival and Ayurveda integration to boost medical tourism and domestic healthcare

November 11, 2025 | 23:10 IST