Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 02 : In a major relief to cancer patients and their families, the Union Budget has announced the removal of basic customs duty on 17 cancer drugs, a move expected to significantly reduce treatment costs and improve access to life-saving medicines.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that, to ease the financial burden on patients suffering from cancer, customs duty has been reduced not only for cancer medicines but also for drugs, medicines, and specialised medical food imported for the treatment of seven additional rare diseases.
Cancer treatments in Kashmir often run into lakhs, with imported medicines forming a major part of the expense. For many middle- and low-income families, the cost can be overwhelming.
Abdul Qayoom Dar, whose wife has been undergoing treatment for blood cancer for two years, said that the announcement brings hope, as every month they spend around 50,000 rupees just on medicines. “We have sold our land and borrowed from relatives, and if the prices go down even by a little, it will help families like ours survive this fight,” he told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Fareeda Akhter, a 35-year-old cancer survivor from South Kashmir, said the decision could change lives. “I had to stop one course of treatment midway because we couldn’t afford the imported drug. Cheaper medicines mean patients won’t have to choose between health and financial ruin,” she added.
Dr Ashraf Dar, an oncologist, said that customs duty removal will directly impact drug pricing. While this is not a complete solution, it is a positive step toward making cancer care more accessible.
Families affected by cancer say the announcement has given them a sense of recognition and support from the government. “We feel seen,” said Mohammad Irfan, whose 10-year-old daughter is undergoing chemotherapy. “Cancer doesn’t just attack the body; it destroys savings and peace of mind. Any relief means hope.”
They, however, urged for a strong and effective cancer policy to help patients in every way—(KNO)
