India’s medical value travel (MVT) market, estimated at around $6 billion in 2022, is projected to surpass $13 billion in 2026, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said on Monday.

Speaking at the 6th edition of the FICCI Medical Value Travel Awards, held during the 8th edition of Advantage Healthcare India (AHCI) 2026, the minister said the initiative reflects both India’s achievements and its ambitions in the fast-growing medical travel segment.

Affordable care and policy support power growth

He noted that India has emerged as a preferred global destination offering affordable, high-quality and holistic healthcare, supported by internationally accredited institutions and globally respected medical professionals.

“The sector, valued at approximately US$ 6 billion in 2022, is projected to surpass USD 13 billion by 2026. This growth is the result of sustained efforts by healthcare providers, facilitators, policymakers, and industry bodies such as FICCI,” he emphasised.

Addressing the gathering, Shekhawat said, “Medical Value Travel is not merely a sector of economic growth; it reflects India’s civilisational ethos of healing with compassion and serving humanity with excellence. As the global demand for quality and affordable care rises, India is uniquely positioned to lead with integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, strengthening global partnerships while ensuring that our healthcare ecosystem sets new benchmarks in trust and transparency.”

He added that patients are increasingly choosing India not just for cost advantages but also for clinical excellence, timely access and the integration of modern medicine with traditional wellness systems.

Initiatives such as the Heal in India campaign, streamlined medical visa processes and the development of integrated medical and wellness hubs are aimed at strengthening the ecosystem and positioning the country as a trusted destination for global patients.

Awards stress need for stronger systems and global benchmarks

Sudhanshu Pandey (Retd.), Election Commissioner for the Union Territories and Jury Chair at the awards, said, “Nearly a decade ago, when healthcare was identified among India’s Champion Sectors, the objective was clear: to give global patients a structured, credible, and organised ecosystem rather than a fragmented experience. The institution of these awards was a natural progression of that vision, to benchmark excellence and encourage continuous improvement.”

He said that as competition intensifies and global standards rise, the next phase of growth will depend on stronger internal systems, data integrity and documentation practices aligned with international expectations. Sustained leadership in medical value travel, he added, will come not only from clinical excellence but also from systemic maturity.

Dr Raajiv Singhal, chair of the FICCI medical value travel committee and founding member, MD and Group CEO of Marengo Asia Healthcare, said, “India’s healthcare outreach is entering a defining decade, powered by capability, collaboration, and global confidence. As participation expands and partnerships deepen, we are not only showcasing excellence but also strengthening India’s standing as a preferred international destination for advanced and comprehensive medical care.”

The Medical Value Travel Awards 2026 were presented during AHCI 2026, recognising excellence, innovation and leadership across hospitals, facilitators, AYUSH institutions, wellness providers and policymakers contributing to India’s growing prominence in the global healthcare landscape.