India is facing a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease and diabetes, while resources for prevention remain limited. Fiscal policies, such as taxes on products including sugar-sweetened beverages, junk foods, and tobacco, are not being fully utilized, even though they have the potential to reduce NCD risk factors.
The adoption of these policies in India is challenged by political, economic, and social factors, including changes in tax governance following the Goods and Services Tax (GST) reform, industry resistance, and diverse stakeholder interests. One Health Trust researchers are investigating these factors by engaging with key stakeholders to identify barriers to effective implementation of health taxes. The aim is to offer actionable recommendations to strengthen fiscal health policies in India and other low- and middle-income countries.
