Historic Relief: 17 Life-Saving Cancer Drugs Now Cheaper, Duty-Free in India

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a complete waiver of basic customs duty on 17 essential cancer drugs in the Union Budget 2026–27.
• The decision aims to significantly reduce treatment costs for cancer patients, as many advanced cancer drugs are imported and become expensive due to duties and taxes.
• The 17 duty-free drugs include Ribociclib, Abemaciclib, Venetoclax, Ibrutinib, and several immunotherapy and targeted therapy agents crucial for advanced cancer treatments.
• This move is expected to make advanced cancer treatments more accessible and affordable, especially for patients without comprehensive health insurance, aligning with the 'Biopharma Shakti' policy.
• Experts like Dr. K. Srikanth emphasize that this will help patients complete their treatment, reduce financial burden, and benefit insurance companies by improving recovery rates.

Why It Matters: India waives customs duty on 17 critical cancer drugs, making life-saving treatments more affordable and accessible.