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The Ministry of Ayush (MoA) has emerged as a key pillar in India’s healthcare sector, substantially advancing preventive, promotive, and curative medicine through a comprehensive, well-structured institutional network. With oversight provided by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine and the National Commission for Homoeopathy, the ministry ensures rigorous standards in education and professional practice for systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy.
Across the country, 12 National-level teaching institutes now offer a spectrum of academic programs—including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses—while running specialty training initiatives. The institutes provide Outpatient and Inpatient Department (OPD/IPD) services in NABH/NABL-accredited hospitals and lead nationwide health camps, awareness initiatives, and community-based projects.
Scientific Research and Outreach
The advancement and scientific validation of Ayush systems receive robust backing from five autonomous research councils, including the Central Councils for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Homoeopathy, Unani Medicine, Siddha, and Yoga & Naturopathy. These councils have established extensive networks—such as 30 institutes under CCRAS, 21 under CCRUM, 27 units with 6 treatment centres under CCRH, and other peripheral institutes—that provide OPD/IPD services, school health programs, and mobile clinical research, with targeted initiatives supporting Scheduled Castes and Tribal communities.
Similarly, the Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN) operates 8 institutes, 10 wellness centres, and 10 Mind-Body Intervention centres, promoting holistic healthcare nationwide.
Quality, Manufacturing, and Regulation
Ayush also oversees the Indian Medicines Pharmaceuticals Corporation Limited (IMPCL), a public-sector entity manufacturing quality-assured medicines. The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy plays a crucial role in drug standardization and laboratory testing, supporting nationwide and global distribution of standard products. Matters related to Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy (ASU&H) medicines remain subject to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Government Schemes and International Expansion
Central to the MoA’s outreach is the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), a centrally sponsored scheme implemented via State and UT governments, offering targeted financial assistance to expand Ayush facilities per State Annual Action Plans.
With an eye to global engagement, the ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the India Tourism Development Corporation, focusing on the promotion of Medical Value Travel in Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems. Medical Value Travel Summits—for the Western and Southern zones—have united industry leaders and state governments to elevate India’s profile as a medical tourism destination.
In a landmark move, a new Ayush Visa category was launched on July 27, 2023, easing entry for international patients seeking traditional Indian treatments. The Medical and Ayush Visa Portal, managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, streamlines visa processes for eligible foreign patients, allowing only authorized hospitals to invite patients and facilitating medical travel.
Workforce Training and Capacity Building
Recognizing the growing demand for skilled Ayush practitioners, the ministry has implemented the ‘Ayurgyan’ scheme since 2021–22, emphasizing capacity building and continuing medical education. Under this initiative, extensive training and upskilling programs are offered nationwide, supplemented by international cooperation schemes to boost exports and global recognition of Ayush products and services. Recent efforts include:
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Collaborations to establish Ayush Academic Chairs abroad.
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Workshops and symposiums in foreign countries.
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Research and academic programs such as SPARK, PG Star, PhD and Post-doctoral Fellowships, and PRAYATNA to stimulate research skills among students and young researchers.
Special training for regulatory authorities and laboratory analysts further aims to maintain the integrity and quality of ASU&H medicines.
In May 2024, a National Level Master Training on Standard Treatment Guidelines was conducted in partnership with the DGHS and the Central Health Education Bureau, ensuring the latest clinical protocols reach healthcare professionals across all states and union territories.
Building a Healthier, Holistic Future
Regular workshops, seminars, and academic programs at the national institutes and research councils ensure that Ayush professionals are equipped with state-of-the-art knowledge and skills to respond to national and international needs.
This information was provided by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, in a written reply in Lok Sabha.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information provided by government sources and is intended for informational purposes only. The content does not constitute professional medical advice or endorsement and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.
