At THE WEEK’s AYUSH Conclave- Ayush for the world, Union Minister for Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav struck a reflective yet forward-looking note, presenting AYUSH not just as a healthcare system, but as India’s philosophical and cultural offering to the world.
Calling the conclave a joyful initiative, Jadhav emphasised how the last decade has seen a significant push for Ayush systems—Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy- both within India and globally. He framed health in holistic terms, saying the human body should be seen as a “living ecosystem” in which food itself becomes medicine, and the mind and body are inseparable.
“The idea of Ayush is simple but powerful,” he noted. “It reminds us that wellness is not just about curing disease, but about living in balance.”
A decade of expansion
Jadhav highlighted that the government has worked steadily to integrate Ayush into mainstream healthcare. One of the major announcements he pointed to was the proposal in the 2026–27 Union Budget to establish a new All India Institute of Ayurveda, signalling continued investment in infrastructure and research.
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He stressed that the focus is now shifting towards scientific validation. “We are preparing systems that can stand global scrutiny. Ayush must be evidence-based and widely accepted,” he said, underlining the importance of bridging traditional knowledge with modern science.
Importantly, Ayush has now been integrated into flagship schemes like Ayushman Bharat, expanding its reach and legitimacy. According to Jadhav, this is not just policy inclusion; it is about making holistic healthcare a right accessible to ordinary citizens.
Taking Ayush global
The minister underscored India’s growing global footprint in traditional medicine. He revealed that India has already signed agreements with over 50 countries to promote Ayush systems. Initiatives like “Heal in India” and “Heal by India” aim to position the country as a global wellness hub.
“This is India’s gift to the world,” Jadhav said, linking Ayush to the country’s civilisational heritage. He referred to ancient texts like the Vedas and the contributions of yoga practitioners, arguing that India has a responsibility to share this knowledge globally.
Reaching every household
Domestically, the goal is clear: to take Ayush to every household. Jadhav spoke about increased investment in knowledge-sharing and public outreach.
A recent “Chintan Shivir” (brainstorming session) within the ministry focused on strengthening media engagement so that Ayush messaging reaches wider audiences.
He also praised THE WEEK for creating a platform that brings together practitioners, policymakers, and the public, calling such dialogues essential for awareness and acceptance.
Ayush and India@2047
Looking ahead, Jadhav linked Ayush to India’s long-term development vision. As the country works towards becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, he said Ayush will play a crucial role, not just in healthcare, but in shaping a preventive, sustainable model of living.
“Ayush is not just about India,” he concluded. “It is about the world. And the time has come for us to share it."
