In order to promote Medical Tourism in India, Indian Government has extended the Marketing Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme to include Medical Tourism in its purview in February, 2009.
Financial support under this Scheme is provided to approved Medical Tourism Service Providers, i.e. representatives of Hospitals accredited by Joint Commission for International Accredited Hospitals (JCI) and National Accreditation Board of Hospitals (NABH) and Medical Tourism facilitators (Travel Agents/Tour Operators) approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and engaged in Medical Tourism subject to adherence to scheme guidelines and availability of funds.
No changes in the policy on MDA have been made. However, the Ministry does not have any agreement with any organization/body/entity on Medical Tourism.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, along with State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and other stakeholders promote Medical Tourism as a niche product in the international markets.
The specific promotion of Medical and Wellness Tourism is also done by Ministry of Tourism along with the State Governments including at various international travel events and organizing road shows in potential markets. In addition, promotion is also done through the Incredible India campaign.