Draft National Health Research Policy 2026

The Department of Health Research under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare unveiled the Draft National Health Research Policy 2026 on 13-15 July 2026. The draft is India’s first comprehensive national framework for health research across biomedical science, clinical medicine, public health, epidemiology, digital health, and artificial intelligence.

Policy Framework

The draft policy seeks to align health research with India’s disease burden and public health priorities. It also proposes integration of research with state health programmes and service delivery systems.

Governance Structure

The draft outlines a three-tier governance structure for health research in India. The National Health Research Stewardship Committee will provide strategic coordination, the Department of Health Research will act as the nodal implementing agency, and the Indian Council of Medical Research will serve as the scientific and technical lead.

Funding and Research Priorities

The draft states that India allocates 0.024% of GDP to health research, while the average in high-income countries is 0.27% of GDP. It proposes raising health research spending to 0.072% of GDP by 2037 and 0.15% of GDP by 2047.

Important Facts for Exams

• The previous National Health Research Policy was introduced in 2011.
• The draft invites public comments and suggestions until 27 July 2026.
• The policy proposes a National Health Research Agenda to identify priority areas periodically.
• The agenda will use disease burden, scientific opportunity, equity, and national interests as criteria.

Static GK on Health Research Policy

Health research includes studies in biomedical science, clinical medicine, public health, epidemiology, and digital health. The Indian Council of Medical Research is India’s apex body for the formulation, coordination, and promotion of biomedical research.

Policy Continuity

The draft updates the 2011 framework and addresses emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in health research. It also places emphasis on long-term national targets up to 2047.