India is making significant strides in traditional medicine, healthcare innovation, and international cooperation, marking its position as a global leader in integrative wellness. At the heart of this transformation is the World Health Organization’s Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar—a groundbreaking initiative designed to advance evidence-based research, training, and awareness for traditional medicine. As the first-ever WHO global outposted center dedicated to traditional medicine, it serves as an essential knowledge hub for practitioners and researchers worldwide, placing India at the forefront of traditional and complementary healthcare systems.
Bolstering these efforts is the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation in Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, developed by India’s Ministry of Ayush. The initiative aims to propel India’s Ayush systems onto the global stage by supporting entrepreneurs, drug manufacturers, and service providers while promoting exports and fostering market development. Through academic collaborations, research symposiums, and international exhibitions, the scheme facilitates a strong dialogue on India’s rich heritage in traditional medicine.
In its domestic agenda, the Ministry of Ayush has taken unprecedented steps to integrate Ayurveda into modern medical practices. The Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services operates as a joint institutional mechanism between the Ministries of Ayush and Health and Family Welfare, addressing contemporary healthcare challenges with integrative approaches. Key hospitals in Delhi, including Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, have established dedicated integrative medicine departments to promote collaborative healthcare.
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences has been pivotal in bridging traditional and modern systems of medicine, completing research studies across critical healthcare domains. These include innovative approaches to managing osteoarthritis, cancer care, geriatric health, and reproductive health, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of integrative interventions in primary and tertiary healthcare systems.
Internationally, India has strengthened awareness and cooperation through agreements with foreign universities and institutions to establish Ayush academic chairs and conduct collaborative research projects. Domestically, multi-media campaigns and outreach programs led by the Council amplify awareness and acceptance of Ayurvedic practices among diverse communities, from rural citizens in Meghalaya to metropolitan audiences in Delhi.
The Ministry’s initiatives extend beyond research and academia to include robust public engagement campaigns such as Arogya fairs, yoga festivals, and Ayurveda expos, ensuring that knowledge reaches every corner of the nation. Furthermore, the North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy exemplifies grassroots health awareness efforts, providing free medical consultations, hosting awareness camps, and engaging local communities in the Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.
These developments highlight India’s unwavering commitment to redefining healthcare, combining its rich heritage with modern medical advancements. With programs fostering global wellness, evidence-based practices, and accessible healthcare, India is paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all. As the world embraces integrative medicine, India’s leadership remains indispensable in shaping this evolving landscape.
