The Union Budget 2026 has announced the extension of customs duty exemption on goods used for lithium-ion cell manufacturing, marking a significant policy continuation for India's battery production sector. This decision reflects the government's ongoing commitment to supporting domestic manufacturing capabilities in the clean energy space.

Policy Extension Details

The budget extends the existing customs duty exemption framework that applies to goods specifically used in lithium-ion cell production. This exemption covers various components and materials essential for battery manufacturing, helping reduce input costs for domestic producers.

Impact on Manufacturing Sector

The extension of this customs duty exemption is expected to provide continued support to India's battery manufacturing industry. By maintaining lower import costs for essential goods and components, the policy aims to enhance the competitiveness of domestic lithium-ion cell producers.

The measure aligns with India's broader manufacturing and clean energy objectives, potentially encouraging further investment in the battery production sector. Domestic manufacturers can continue to benefit from reduced input costs, which may translate into more competitive pricing for their products.

Strategic Significance

This policy extension underscores the government's recognition of lithium-ion batteries as a critical component of India's energy transition strategy. The continued customs duty relief demonstrates sustained policy support for building domestic capabilities in this strategic sector.

The extension comes at a time when global demand for lithium-ion batteries continues to grow, driven by electric vehicle adoption and renewable energy storage requirements. By maintaining favorable import conditions for manufacturing inputs, India aims to strengthen its position in the global battery supply chain.

India's Finance Minister has announced a major healthcare policy change in Union Budget 2026, eliminating customs duty on 17 cancer-related drugs. This significant move is designed to reduce the financial burden on cancer patients and improve access to essential medications.

Healthcare Policy Initiative

The announcement to remove customs duty on cancer-related drugs represents a targeted approach to healthcare affordability. By eliminating these duties, the government aims to make cancer treatment more accessible to patients across various economic segments.

Impact on Cancer Treatment Costs

The removal of customs duty on these 17 specific cancer-related drugs is expected to result in reduced medication costs for patients. This policy change addresses one of the key financial challenges faced by cancer patients and their families during treatment.

Government's Healthcare Focus

This announcement reflects the government's continued emphasis on healthcare sector reforms and making medical treatment more affordable. The specific targeting of cancer-related drugs demonstrates recognition of the high costs associated with cancer treatment and the need for policy intervention to support patients.