India Expands Rare Disease Care Network to Strengthen Diagnosis and Treatment Access

New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): The Government of India has further strengthened its framework for rare disease management under the National Policy for Rare Diseases, 2021, building on the National Health Policy, 2017.

The policy is being implemented through 15 Centres of Excellence across the country, including two in the North-East, to improve access to specialised diagnosis and treatment services.

Officials said the focus is on early detection, improved clinical care, and stronger health system support to ensure timely treatment for patients with rare diseases. The government is also encouraging research and innovation in the field through leading medical institutions.

Steps have also been taken to reduce treatment costs by exempting life-saving medicines from basic customs duty.

Health authorities said the initiative reflects India’s continued efforts to build a more integrated and responsive healthcare system for rare disease patients.