India is set to get its first Ayush Jan Aushadhi Centre on October 9, aiming to integrate traditional healthcare practices like Ayurveda with modern medicine, Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Ayush said on Monday. These Centres will be on the lines of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra which are dedicated to making quality generic medicines accessible to all sections of society.
Jadhav stressed that the initiative (Ayush Jan Aushadhi Centre) seeks to enhance access to holistic treatments and promote awareness of traditional remedies, enriching the country’s healthcare system.
People are interested in experiencing authentic Ayush services, but many times it is observed that either they are unaware or don’t have access to these services. But we are taking several steps to reachout to the general masses.
It is now vital to India’s healthcare system, including integration into AIIMS and defence hospitals, he emphasised.
The Minister was speaking at the Ayush Medical Value Travel Summit 2024, themed ‘Global Synergy in Ayush: Transforming Health and Wellness through Medical Value Travel,’ in Mumbai.
He also exhorted the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to establish a Ministry of Ayush and an Ayush University in the State.
As per the statement issued here, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has issued new guidelines, requiring health insurance companies to offer AYUSH treatments at par with other treatments.
So far about 49 life insurance companies are providing about 69 packages.
Jadhav further said, “Our focus on comprehensive health encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, making India a global leader in health tourism…With the G-20 presidency, we have positioned Ayush globally, integrating these practices into various healthcare systems and institutions nationwide.”
In his keynote presentation, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Union Ayush Secretary delved into the Ayush industry’s growing global presence. “The global reach of Ayush has significantly expanded, with exports witnessing substantial growth.
The size of the sector has increased dramatically. According to an analysis, the size of the Ayush sector grew from USD 3 million in 2014 to USD18.1 million in 2020—an increase of sixfold within six years.”
Dr. Manoj Nesari, Advisor (Ayu), Union Ayush Ministry said that as the number of foreign travellers seeking Ayush treatments grows, it’s vital for all stakeholders—tour operators, insurance providers, and hospitality leaders—to unite and leverage government initiatives to boost this essential sector.
According to a report, India ranks 10th globally in the Medical Tourism Index, and its top wellness tourism destinations underscore the nation’s potential to attract international patients seeking integrated and cost-effective healthcare solutions.
