The Government of India’s Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) is accelerating efforts to expand the global reach of India’s traditional medical systems through its AYUSH Chair Programme and numerous international partnerships. These initiatives aim to establish India as a global leader in alternative medicine, blending ancient wisdom with modern healthcare practices.
Central to this mission is the AYUSH Chair Programme, which places academic chairs in prestigious foreign universities and institutions. The program currently operates in Bangladesh, Australia, Mauritius, Latvia, and Malaysia. These chairs are tasked with advancing research, developing specialized curricula, conducting seminars, and fostering cultural exchange to raise awareness about the benefits of AYUSH systems.
The Ministry of AYUSH has also entered into 50 institutional Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with prominent organizations worldwide, solidifying India’s position as a key contributor to global healthcare innovation. These partnerships include collaborations with institutions such as the University of Mississippi in the United States, the Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine in the United Kingdom, and Universidad Maimonides in Argentina. These agreements facilitate groundbreaking research in Ayurvedic sciences, homeopathy, and yoga, among other disciplines.
One notable example of these collaborations is the partnership with Western Sydney University in Australia, focusing on advancing education and research in traditional Indian medicine. In Israel, the Ministry has forged ties with the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Institute to develop cutting-edge methodologies in Ayurvedic science. Additionally, the collaboration with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is exploring the efficacy of Ashwagandha in aiding COVID-19 recovery.
Beyond academic advancements, these initiatives aim to standardize AYUSH practices for international acceptance. Agreements with organizations such as the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine (PCIM&H) and the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention are driving this effort. These partnerships ensure that AYUSH systems align with global healthcare standards while retaining their cultural and historical essence.
The AYUSH Chairs are also tasked with engaging local communities and institutions, promoting a deeper understanding of alternative therapies. This includes delivering public lectures, hosting workshops, and participating in international conferences to showcase India’s expertise in this field.
Evaluation mechanisms are in place to ensure the effectiveness of the AYUSH Chairs. Monthly reports from these academic leaders help assess their impact, ensuring that the program aligns with its overarching goals of expanding global recognition and acceptance of India’s traditional medical systems.
The Ministry’s strategy demonstrates a commitment to integrating ancient Indian medical knowledge with contemporary scientific practices. By fostering international collaboration and research, the AYUSH initiative not only enhances India’s soft power but also contributes meaningfully to global healthcare challenges.
