The Government of India has been actively promoting the integration of Ayush systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) into the mainstream healthcare system. The National AYUSH Mission (NAM), launched in 2014, is a key initiative in this direction. A press release was issued on December 10, 2024.
Key Objectives of NAM
- Strengthening AYUSH Healthcare: The mission aims to enhance the availability and quality of AYUSH healthcare services across the country.
- Promoting Preventive Healthcare: By establishing AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres, the government seeks to promote preventive and promotive healthcare based on AYUSH principles.
- Co-location of Facilities: The co-location of AYUSH facilities with primary healthcare centers (PHCs), community health centers (CHCs), and district hospitals provides patients with the option to choose between different systems of medicine under one roof.
- Public Health Integration: AYUSH systems are being integrated into public health programs to address various health issues.
- Strengthening AYUSH Education: The mission also focuses on improving the infrastructure of AYUSH educational institutions.
The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of Ayush are working collaboratively to implement the co-location strategy. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is responsible for training AYUSH doctors and paramedics under the National Health Mission (NHM), while the Ministry of Ayush provides support for infrastructure, equipment, and medicines through the NAM.
Benefits of Integration
- Patients can choose the system of medicine that best suits their needs.
- Integration of AYUSH with modern medicine can offer a holistic approach to healthcare.
- AYUSH treatments often offer cost-effective solutions for various ailments.
- Co-location of facilities improves accessibility to AYUSH services, especially in rural areas.
