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In a significant push towards integrating traditional systems of medicine, the Government of India is actively promoting the AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) system under the centrally sponsored National Ayush Mission (NAM). The Ministry of Ayush, through coordinated efforts with State and Union Territory governments, is offering substantial financial support and resources to enhance the reach and effectiveness of AYUSH-based healthcare.
Key initiatives include the operationalization of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs by upgrading existing Ayush Dispensaries and Sub Health Centers, and the co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and District Hospitals (DHs). Efforts also extend to upgrading government-owned AYUSH hospitals and dispensaries, and constructing new facilities where none currently exist.
A major part of the program is dedicated to the establishment of integrated AYUSH hospitals with 50, 30, or 10 beds, supplying essential AYUSH medicines to government institutions, and expanding public health AYUSH initiatives. The mission further aims to address the shortage of educational facilities by establishing new AYUSH colleges and upgrading the infrastructure of existing undergraduate and postgraduate institutions.
To date, the central government has allocated Rs. 5,670.82 crore to States and UTs for these varied NAM-supported activities, with a focus on the development of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
The Ministry also runs a Central Sector Scheme designed to promote awareness through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) initiatives. This scheme organizes national and state-level health fairs, Yoga festivals, Ayurveda celebrations, and multimedia campaigns, all aimed at educating the public about the benefits of AYUSH systems.
A noteworthy strategy adopted by the government involves co-locating AYUSH services in standard healthcare centers, providing patients with a choice of treatment under one roof. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Ministry of Ayush cooperate on deploying AYUSH doctors and paramedics, upgrading infrastructure, and ensuring access to quality AYUSH medicines as part of the broader National Health Mission (NHM) and Ayushman Bharat initiatives.
On the international front, the Ministry of Ayush is advancing AYUSH exports and recognition through the Promotion of International Cooperation (IC) scheme. This includes supporting Indian AYUSH manufacturers and service providers in global markets, signing multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with foreign countries, and establishing academic AYUSH chairs abroad.
Ensuring Quality and Safety
Regulation of AYUSH medicines is handled under The Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Drugs Rules, 1945, with mandatory licensing, safety, and GMP compliance requirements for manufacturers. Drug inspectors conduct regular quality checks, with any substandard products subjected to legal action and market withdrawal.
The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) is tasked with developing and maintaining quality standards for AYUSH medicines, training stakeholders, and serving as the Central Drugs Laboratory for testing ASU&H drugs.
Currently, 108 private labs are licensed for AYUSH drug testing, with 34 State/UT Drug Testing Laboratories also operational. Additionally, the government has launched the Ayush Oushadhi Gunvatta Evam Uttpadan Samvardhan Yojana (AOGUSY), allocating Rs. 122 crore over five years to raise industry standards.
AYUSH products are further supported through rigorous certification, including a dedicated AYUSH vertical in the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the implementation of AYUSH standard and premium marks under the Quality Council of India (QCI).
This comprehensive update was provided by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information provided by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. For medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
