Context
Traditional medicine is witnessing renewed global acceptance, driven by increasing demand for preventive healthcare, affordability, and holistic wellness. India, with its AYUSH systems—Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homeopathy—is emerging as a key leader in this sector.
Global Expansion of Traditional Medicine
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), traditional medicine is used in 88% of member countries (170 of 194).
- The global market is estimated to grow to $583 billion by 2025, with an impressive 10–20% annual growth rate.
- Traditional medicine continues to serve as the primary healthcare source for billions, particularly in developing nations, due to easy access and cultural acceptance.
India’s AYUSH Sector: Economic and Global Growth
- The Indian AYUSH industry has expanded eight-fold in under a decade.
- Revenue from AYUSH product manufacturing surged from ₹21,697 crore (2014–15) to over ₹1.37 lakh crore.
- India exports AYUSH and herbal products worth $1.54 billion to over 150 countries.
- Ayurveda has received formal recognition in several countries, boosting India’s soft power.
- The AYUSH services sector currently generates ₹1.67 lakh crore and includes over 92,000 MSME units.
Growing Acceptance in India
- The National Sample Survey (2022–23) found that over 50% of Indians used AYUSH treatments in the previous year.
- AYUSH is also integrated into national health programmes, promoting preventive care and healthy lifestyles.
Institutional Strengthening and Research
- India has established premier research institutes such as the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA).
- Focus areas include:
- Clinical trial validation
- Standardization of herbal formulations
- Integrative medicine models
- Digital databases for Ayurveda drugs
- WHO opened its Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar, India—its first global hub for traditional medicine.
India’s International Outreach
- Under the Ministry of AYUSH’s International Cooperation Scheme:
- 25 bilateral MoUs and 52 institutional partnerships have been signed.
- 43 AYUSH Information Cells established in 39 nations.
- India is also promoting yoga globally, building on UN recognition of International Yoga Day (June 21).
Technology Integration and Future Outlook
- WHO notes that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science can enhance:
- Clinical validation
- Personalized herbal therapy
- Big data analytics
- The 2025 Ayurveda Day theme: “Ayurveda for People and Planet”, linking Ayurveda with:
- Lifestyle disease management
- Climate resilience
- Sustainable living
- Biodiversity protection
Conclusion
Traditional medicine is gaining unprecedented momentum globally, and India is at the forefront of this transformation. By combining ancient knowledge with modern research and technology, AYUSH offers a sustainable, inclusive, and preventive healthcare model for the world.