Government Launches National Policy on AI in Healthcare

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched a National Policy on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, providing a comprehensive framework for the responsible adoption of AI technologies across India’s health system. The policy aims to leverage AI to improve healthcare access, quality, and efficiency while ensuring ethical use, patient safety, and data privacy.

The policy focuses on key application areas such as AI-enabled diagnostics, telemedicine, clinical decision support systems, and predictive analytics. AI tools are expected to assist in early disease detection, radiology and pathology analysis, epidemic forecasting, and personalized treatment planning, particularly in resource-constrained and remote areas. Integration with platforms such as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) will enable seamless use of digital health records and interoperability across healthcare providers.

A core pillar of the policy is data governance and patient privacy. It emphasizes anonymization of health data, informed consent, cybersecurity safeguards, and compliance with emerging data protection frameworks. The policy clearly states that AI systems are meant to assist healthcare professionals and not replace clinical judgment, ensuring accountability and patient trust.

The framework also promotes research, innovation, and capacity building. It encourages public–private partnerships, startup participation, and collaboration with academic institutions to develop indigenous AI solutions tailored to India’s healthcare needs. Training programs for doctors, health workers, and administrators are proposed to enhance AI literacy and ethical deployment.

To ensure equitable outcomes, the policy stresses bias mitigation, transparency, and inclusivity, preventing algorithmic discrimination and ensuring that AI benefits reach underserved populations.

Significance

The National Policy on AI in Healthcare improves healthcare access and service delivery, promotes innovation in medical technology, and strengthens India’s digital health infrastructure. By balancing technological advancement with ethics and privacy, it supports efficient, inclusive, and future-ready healthcare governance.