From Grassroots to Global: AYUSH's Expanding Reach in Health, Innovation, Employment

INTERVIEW

As India continues to embrace its rich heritage of traditional medicine and wellness practices, the Ministry of AYUSH plays a pivotal role in shaping policies that promote Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy at both national and international levels. In this exclusive interview for Employment News, Senior Journalist Siddharth Jha discusses in detail with Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, the Ministry's forward- looking initiatives aimed at expanding access to AYUSH services, fostering innovation, and generating employment opportunities across the wellness sector. Shri Jadhav provides valuable insights into how the Ministry is working to integrate traditional healthcare systems into the mainstream, promote global recognition of AYUSH practices, and create pathways for young professionals and entrepreneurs to engage with India's vibrant wellness economy. This interview offers a comprehensive overview of the Ministry's efforts to drive growth, improve public health, and position India as a leader in holistic healthcare.

Q. What is the progress in integrating AYUSH packages into Ayushman Bharat - PMJAY and how it's expected to enhance healthcare accessibility?

A. The integration process has been unfolding step by step. It started in February 2020 when the Ministry of AYUSH established a Task Force, led by an Additional Secretary, to explore how AYUSH treatments could fit into PMJAY. By July 2020, a six-member Expert Committee recommended 289 Ayurveda treatment packages, which were forwarded to the National Health Authority (NHA) for review. After feedback from the NHA, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) set up a Technical Committee in March 2021 that finalised 172 packages for Phase I. In 2023, we formed a working group that developed 150 treatment packages based on updated Standard Treatment Guidelines (SCG-2020). By March 2024, a Strategic Procurement Committee was created to rationalise AYUSH package costs, chaired by Prof. Bejon Kumar Mishra. Their final report, submitted in July 2024, is now under review by the National Health Authority (NHA). In October 2024, the Secretary (AYUSH) proposed starting with 150 Ayurveda Health Benefit Packages (AHBP) under PMJAY. This integration will make traditional AYUSH treatments accessible to millions by including them under the PMJAY framework, expanding affordable health-care options and promoting holistic wellness across the country.

Q. How will the Strategic Procurement Committee help to make AYUSH treatments more affordable, particularly for underprivileged communities?

A. The Strategic Procurement Committee (SPC) is instrumental in ensuring that AYUSH treatments remain affordable, particularly for underprivileged communities. The Forum on Indian Traditional Medicine (FITM), under the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), carried out a study to assess current market prices and the cost of providing quality care in accordance with NABH and CGHS standards. The FITM submitted its findings to the SPC, which subsequently presented the report to the Secretary (AYUSH) on July 24, 2024. The report was also forwarded to the National Health Authority (NHA) for further consideration and necessary action.

The Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) offers annual health coverage of Rs. 5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation in both public and private empanelled hospitals across country. This scheme benefits over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families, covering approxi-mately 55 crore individuals. There are no restrictions based on family size, age, or gender, and no financial burden is placed on the beneficiaries.

The SPC has recommended that AYUSH services be included within the existing Rs. 5 lakh coverage under AB-PMJAY. This will ensure that all under-privileged families can access AYUSH treatments without facing additional financial difficulties/burden.

Q. How will the "Har Ghar AyurYog" campaign promote Ayurveda and Yoga at the grassroots level, and how will the Ministry ensure participation from rural and underserved communities?

A. The "Har Ghar AyurYog" campaign is currently under consideration by the Ministry of AYUSH. While the campaign aims to promote Ayurveda and Yoga at the grassroots level, the specific measures to engage rural and underserved communities are still being developed.

Q. How does the Ministry plan to expand access to AYUSH medicines, particularly in remote and rural areas?

A. The Ministry of AYUSH is drafting a proposal to establish AYUSH Medical Centres at district and tehsil levels to improve the availability of AYUSH medicines. This initiative aims to expand retail outlets, ensuring access to traditional medicines in remote and rural regions. The proposal is currently under process.

Q. What steps are being taken to promote AYUSH systems inter-nationally?

A. The Ministry of AYUSH has launched a Central Sector Scheme to promote international cooperation and raise awareness about Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy. The initiative facilitates the international promotion and development of AYUSH systems by encouraging global collaboration, expanding AYUSH markets, and supporting the exchange of experts and information. The scheme promotes AYUSH products, services, education, and research while establishing AYUSH academic chairs in foreign universities. The Ministry has signed 24 country-to-country MoUs, set up 15 academic chairs abroad, and supported the creation of 42 AYUSH Information Cells in 38 countries. Scholarships are also offered to international students under the International AYUSH Fellowship Programme, promoting education in India's traditional medicine.

Q. How is the Ministry leveraging AYUSH systems to generate employment opportunities, particularly for doctors, researchers, and professionals in the wellness industry?

A. The Ministry of AYUSH is fostering an ecosystem that promotes employment through various initiatives, including global trade agreements and the AYUSH visa scheme, which attracts foreign patients for traditional treatments. This expansion in medical value travel increases demand for AYUSH practitioners and wellness professionals. Additionally, the establishment of Centres of Excellence and interdisciplinary research institutes opens new avenues for researchers and professionals. Innovation- driven initiatives such as the AYUSH Innovation Launchpad (AIL) further encourage startups and entrepreneurs to engage in the wellness and healthcare industries, creating jobs and boosting the sector's growth.

Q. How is the Ministry addressing international skepticism about AYUSH systems to enhance global acceptance?

A. To address global skepticism, the Ministry of AYUSH has developed a Central Sector Scheme to promote international cooperation in AYUSH. This initiative aims to raise awareness and build trust in Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy through international collaborations and academic partner-ships. The Ministry has facilitated the inclusion of traditional medicine in the WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10 and 11) and established the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine. Efforts such as the formation of the AYUSH Export Promotion Council (AYUSHEXCIL) and the global celebration of International Day of Yoga and Ayurveda Day further contribute to the credibility of AYUSH. Collaborative research projects and MoUs with foreign institutions also reinforce the reliability and scientific backing of AYUSH practices, driving broader acceptance on the international stage.

Q. How do the MoUs with countries like Vietnam and Malaysia contribute to the global recognition of AYUSH systems, and what outcomes do you anticipate from these partnerships?

A. These MoUs are vital for promoting AYUSH on the international stage. We expect several key outcomes:

·       Collaborative Research Initiatives - Joint research projects will assess the efficacy and safety of AYUSH treatments in tackling global health issues. This will provide scientific backing, boosting credibility worldwide.

·       Knowledge Exchange Programmes - We plan to set up mechanisms for sharing knowledge between Indian and partner country experts. This could include workshops, training, and academic exchanges to deepen mutual understanding of traditional medicine.

·       Development of Evidence- Based Practices - Collaborative studies will help develop standardised protocols, ensuring AYUSH practices align with international health guidelines.

·       Integration in Partner Countries - These agreements pave the way for integrating AYUSH systems into Vietnam and Malaysia's healthcare frameworks, offering complementary health solutions.

·       Capacity Building - Training health-care professionals in AYUSH practices will enhance skills and expand the reach of traditional medicine.

·       Promotion of AYUSH Products - We're also working to establish regulatory frameworks to boost AYUSH product exports while ensuring they meet international quality standards.

Q. How does the agreement with the WHO align with the Ministry's broader vision for globalising Indian traditional medicine?

A. The agreement between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the  Government of Indian to establish the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine is a significant step. This global knowledge hub will harness the power of traditional healing practices through modern science and technology. This initiative aims to improve the health of people and the planet, aligning perfectly with our vision to make Indian traditional medicine globally accessible and recognised.

Q. The Centres of Excellence at IISc Bangalore and IIT Delhi sound exciting. Could you share more about the research focus of these centres?

A. The Centre of Excellence for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders at IISc Bangalore will conduct research on pre-diabetes and diabetes. It will evaluate biological effects and response mechanisms, working towards validating Ayurvedic formulations to standardise their quality and efficacy.

The Centre of Excellence for Net-Zero Sustainable Solutions and Ayurvedic Rasaushadhis at IIT Delhi will focus on herbo- mineral formulations (Rasa-ushadhis). The centre aims to develop sustainable, net- zero solutions in Rasashastra (the science of mercury and minerals), promoting its recognition as a legitimate branch of medicine globally. Research will also cover product design, sustainability, and material sciences.

Q. The "One Herb, One Standard" initiative is generating attention. How will it improve the competitiveness of Indian traditional medicine?

A. On August 6, 2024, the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homeopathy (PCIM&H) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) signed an MoU to advance this initiative. By standardising herbal medicines, we're ensuring higher quality, safety, and efficacy across India's pharmaceutical sector.

Aligning with international pharmacopoeia standards will not only boost the credibility of Indian traditional medicine but also increase acceptance in global markets. This initiative strengthens consumer and healthcare professional confidence in Ayurvedic and traditional treatments, creating more export opportunities and promoting integration into global healthcare systems. Ulti-mately, it enhances India's leadership in the global wellness industry and reinforces international trust in our traditional healing practices.

Q. Can you provide updates on the progress of the National Institute of Ayurveda in Panchkula and the second phase of AIIA in New Delhi? How will these facilities strengthen Ayurvedic education and healthcare?

A. The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) in Panchkula and the second phase of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi are progressing steadily, with both projects set to significantly enhance Ayurvedic education and healthcare.

The foundation stone for the NIA in Panchkula was laid by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on February 12, 2019, with the total project cost estimated at Rs. 270.54 crore, covering construction and procurement. Construc-tion is nearing completion with approximately 85% of the work done. Faculty and consultants have been appointed to operate the first- year BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) batch in accordance with NCISM guidelines, and the course has commenced with an intake of 100 students for the 2024 academic session. The hospital wing, including OPD and IPD facilities with 100 beds, has been operational since October 2023, along-side laboratories, physiotherapy, and Panchakarma units. The necessary equipment has been procured and installed, ensuring smooth teaching and patient care. Contracts for construction were awarded in July 2021, with necessary permissions and clearances, including environmental, forest, and zoning approvals, obtained. Building plans were approved in November 2022, and work on the hospital, college, hostels, residential buildings, auditorium, and director's bungalow is ongoing. The NIA will eventually offer postgraduate and fellowship programmes, along with specialised clinics, rehabilitation services, Panchakarma therapies, and para-surgical procedures, contributing to research and the development of Ayur-vedic treatments and medicines.

Meanwhile, the second phase of AIIA in New Delhi, spanning 4.5 acres, was inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on October 29, 2024. This phase managed by NPCC Ltd., introduces key facilities, including a 150- bed Panchakarma hospital, a pharmaceutical manufacturing unit, a sports medicine unit, a central library, and an IT and startup centre. Hostels with 154 rooms for girls and 140 for boys, as well as triple- occupancy rooms, complement the residential infrastructure. An inter-national guest house with 50 rooms and a 500- seat auditorium are also part of the expansion. This phase supports self- financed courses in Ayurveda nursing, pharmacy, and related fields, contributing to skill development in the AYUSH sector. The central library will cater to postgraduate and doctoral students, while the startup centre and pharmaceutical unit will provide hands- on training in quality control and large- scale production of Ayurvedic medicines. The healthcare facilities will see an increase in inpatient capacity by 150 beds, and the sports medicine unit will integrate Ayurveda with sports rehabilitation and injury management. Residential facilities for faculty and students will ensure continuous patient care and immediate response to emergencies. Collectively, these developments will bolster Ayurvedic education, expand access to traditional medicine, and position India as a leader in global wellness and healthcare.

Q. What are the Ministry's priorities for the next phase of AYUSH initiatives?

A. The Ministry's key priority is the AYUSH Innovation Launchpad (AIL) scheme, which has been proposed with a budget of Rs. 480 crore. This initiative aims to foster innovation and provide strategic capital to support AYUSH startups. The scheme includes structured incubation and acceleration programmes to guide entrepreneurs. As part of the initiative, the National AYUSH Innovation Corporation (NAIC), a non- profit company, will be established to manage and fund the launchpad, creating a supportive ecosystem for new enterprises in the sector.

Q. How is AYUSH contributing to the healthcare objectives of G20 countries, especially under India's leadership in healthcare innovation?

A. AYUSH plays a transformative role in advancing G20 healthcare objectives. During India's G20 presidency, the Ministry of AYUSH led efforts to promote Traditional Medicine (TM) as a global healthcare solution. Notably, India hosted the first WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in August 2023 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, which was co-branded with the G20 Health Ministers' Meeting. This summit resulted in the Gujarat Declaration, highlighting the integration of traditional medicine into healthcare systems to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable Development Goal 3. India also proposed the formation of a G20 working group on traditional medicine to promote collaboration and address healthcare challenges globally. Additionally, a sub-group under the existing G20 Health Experts Working Group was suggested to explore the integration of traditional medicine with modern healthcare practices.

Q. What impact has the introduction of the AYUSH visa had on India's role as a global hub for traditional medicine?

A. The introduction of the AYUSH visa on July 27, 2023 has significantly strengthened India's position as a global destination for traditional medicine. This visa allows foreign nationals to visit India for treatment under AYUSH and Indian systems of medicine. The visa is available in four categories: AYUSH Visa (AY-1), AYUSH Attendant Visa (AY-2), e-AYUSH Visa, and e-AYUSH Attendant Visa. As of December 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs had issued 123 regular AYUSH visas, 221 e-AYUSH visas, and 17 e-AYUSH attendant visas. The visas enable foreigners to seek treatment at accredited AYUSH hospitals and wellness centres, boosting medical value travel.

(The interviewer is Public Relations Officer, All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi. Feedback can be sent to feedback.employmentnews@ gmail.com). Views expressed are personal.