Pune, Feb. 4 -- The Union health budget for 2026-27 violates commitments under National Health Policy and neglects public healthcare, Jan Arogya Abhiyan (JAA), a coalition of health rights organisations, people's movements and civil society groups, stated on Monday. Under the 2017 National Health Policy, government health expenditure was to increase from 1.15% of GDP to 2.5% by 2025, with the Centre contributing at least 1%."This year's central health budget is only 0.27% of GDP, about one-fourth of the promised level. Central spending has remained around 0.3% of GDP for the past five years," JAA said. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has been allocated just over Rs.1 lakh crore, a 6% increase from last year. "After adjusting for inflation, this rise is negligible. Health should account for at least 5% of the Union budget, but it is barely 2%. Public health services are likely to remain weak, and free, quality care will continue to be out of reach for the poor and middle class," JAA's statement added. JAA also flagged declining allocations for National Health Mission (NHM), the main programme for rural and urban primary healthcare. Since 2021-22, NHM funding has fallen, and in real terms, the 2026-27 budget reflects a 19% reduction. "Actual spending has often exceeded budgeted amounts, indicating far greater unmet need," said health activist Kajal Jain. Instead of strengthening public hospitals, the government is promoting insurance-based schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the group alleged. While Rs.6,983 crore was spent on PM-JAY in 2024-25 against an allocation of Rs.7,500 crore, funding for the scheme has been increased by 36% in the new budget. "Evidence from India and abroad shows that insurance schemes do not ensure universal healthcare, and CAG reports have flagged serious irregularities," said activist Dr Anant Phadke. "Rising medical expenses are pushing families into debt. The budget offers no relief," he said....