The present article provides a brief review on sources of health disparities, pandemic risks and burdens, various impact factors (such as political disruptions, state-centre imbalance, lack of trained health professionals) hindering policy-making on pandemics. Further, factors responsible for outbreak mismanagement with strategies for effective preparedness is focused. It also highlights the age-old colonial law, so-called the backbone of Indian healthcare policy in strategizing healthcare emergencies. The gaps in the present policy indicate an immediate requirement for an overarching law that governs public health care. The review also envisages the safety and security measures taken by the Indian government against COVID-19, prioritising health over the economy. Finally, flagship changes required in national healthcare policy to prepare the country to fight against any upcoming pandemic outbreaks are suggested.