Health figures high in Nepal’s provincial budgets

Nepal's provincial governments are placing a significant emphasis on the health sector in their budgets for the upcoming fiscal year 2026-27. The allocations aim to enhance both urban and rural healthcare, with a focus on upgrading provincial hospitals and expanding health infrastructure in remote areas.

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Karnali Province’s budget targets access and staffing gaps

Key initiatives include the expansion of specialist services, improved maternal and child health programs, and financial assistance for vulnerable populations, including the poor and chronically ill. Provinces are also earmarking funds for free medicines and awareness campaigns for patients with sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and hemophilia, particularly in the Tarai region.

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Karnali Province has proposed transforming the provincial hospital in Surkhet into a health science academy, allocating Rs236.5 million for the project.

Karnali Province, which faces stark health challenges with high infant and under-five mortality rates, is making a concerted effort to address access and staffing gaps. The province plans to transform its hospital in Surkhet into a health science academy and has doubled the annual incentive allowance for female community health volunteers. Significant funds are allocated for treatment support for critical illnesses like cancer and kidney disease, as well as for telemedicine and health camps in remote areas. Despite these efforts, Karnali grapples with a severe shortage of medical professionals, with many sanctioned positions, especially for doctors and specialists, remaining unfilled.

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The incentive allowance for female community health volunteers has been doubled to Rs24,000 annually.