ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to identify the key gaps in healthcare for all in India. While there have been gains in health indicators since independence, there is still a long way to go in securing quality healthcare for all. This chapter will argue for a public system of care, given the informational asymmetry in medicalised healthcare. It will present a rationale for crafting a credible public system in healthcare. The post-COVID world understands the importance of public health approach much better. However, it is still to show its commitment towards public health emergencies. This chapter will go on to look on why public systems matter in the health sector in the Indian context, and where India stands in healthcare for all. It will also assess the contribution of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and identify the key gaps in healthcare for all. While commending the NRHM approach of public sector strengthening in primary healthcare, the chapter will examine the weaknesses and financing challenges that need to be addressed. It will finally conclude with a specific agenda for crafting a credible public system of healthcare in India.
