Govt pledges to raise health sector share of national budget to 8 pc by 2031

KATHMANDU: The government has pledged to raise the health sector’s share of the national budget to 8% by 2031, according to a national commitment released on Saturday.

The announcement notes that World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend allocating 10% of total public expenditure to health.

The commitment sets out a package of reforms to expand access, improve quality and integrate services across federal, provincial and local levels. Central to the plan is an expansion of the national health insurance programme through 'a more robust model' to ensure quality care and wider coverage for all citizens.

Officials said the government will implement a 'One Citizen One Digital Health Profile' to unify scattered health records and services. Existing health concessions and facilities will be integrated into the social security framework.

The plan also calls for an ultra-modern disability rehabilitation specialised resource centre in each province to provide integrated services for persons with disabilities. In addition, it pledges free and quality treatment for burn victims and an expansion of mental health services nationwide.

Basic health services will be delivered to the doorsteps of senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Moreover, minimum standards for basic health care will be prepared and implemented through an integrated service model.

To strengthen primary care, each primary health service centre will have at least one doctor who has completed postgraduate medical training (MDPG), together with nurses, laboratory and pharmacy services. The document also promises insurance or free treatment for the poor, labourers, farmers and persons with disabilities, and free health services for those in mandatory labour.

Prevention and wellness are emphasised alongside curative care. Accordingly, the government plans a nationwide campaign titled 'I am Healthy, My Family is Healthy' to promote disease prevention through cleaner air and water, healthier environments and active lifestyles.

Traditional and complementary systems will be linked to mainstream services. Ayurveda, natural treatments, yoga and meditation will be connected to health services, and the commitment includes plans to develop 'Wellness Zones and yoga laboratories' in major tourist areas and to include yoga, meditation and health tourism in relevant curricula.

The document proposes a restructuring of health governance across the three tiers of government, with new classifications and quality standards for health workers, equipment, buildings and services. Special priority will be given to improving access in rural and remote areas.

The government said the measures will be tied to annual policies, programmes, budgets and reform agendas beginning with fiscal year 2026/27 and continuing thereafter.