The National Ayush Mission stands as a pivotal move by the Indian government to bolster traditional medicine systems through a range of strategic measures. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of AYUSH, aims to enhance the health care services provided by the Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) systems. The mission focuses on making these services cost-effective and widely accessible, while also ensuring quality control and sufficient availability of raw materials necessary for these traditional medicines.
Approval and Continuation of the National Ayush Mission
The Union Cabinet has given its nod for the continuation of the National Ayush Mission as a centrally sponsored scheme for an additional five years, extending up to 2026. This decision underscores the commitment of the government towards promoting traditional medicinal practices that form an integral part of India’s rich cultural heritage. The extension period is set from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2026, during which the mission will see a considerable financial outlay.
Financial Outlay and Budget Allocation
The extended phase of the National Ayush Mission comes with a substantial financial package. The overall outlay for this timeframe is Rs.4,607.30 crore. This budget is not solely the responsibility of the central government but is shared between the Centre and the state governments. This collaborative financial model ensures that the mission’s objectives are met effectively across various regions, with both central and state governments pooling resources to promote AYUSH services.
Establishment and Upgradation of AYUSH Facilities
A significant component of the National Ayush Mission involves the establishment and upgradation of facilities dedicated to AYUSH wellness. This includes the setting up of new AYUSH wellness centres as well as the enhancement of existing medical colleges, hospitals, and dispensaries that specialize in AYUSH practices. By improving the infrastructure and the quality of services offered at these centres, the mission seeks to make AYUSH treatments more accessible to the public, thereby encouraging the use of traditional medicine for primary healthcare needs.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The National Ayush Mission aims to have a far-reaching impact on the healthcare sector in India. By promoting AYUSH services, the mission not only provides an alternative to conventional medicine but also complements it, offering holistic and preventive care options to the population. The mission’s emphasis on awareness and education about AYUSH systems is expected to lead to increased acceptance and integration of these traditional practices within the mainstream healthcare framework.
Quality Control and Availability of Raw Materials
To ensure that AYUSH services meet high standards of quality, the National Ayush Mission places a strong emphasis on quality control measures. This includes the regulation of education and practice in AYUSH systems, as well as the standardization of drugs and procedures. Moreover, the mission addresses the challenge of raw material scarcity by focusing on the sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants that are essential for the production of AYUSH medicines. This not only guarantees the steady supply of raw materials but also helps in maintaining the efficacy and safety of AYUSH treatments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the National Ayush Mission represents a strategic initiative by the Indian government to promote and integrate traditional medicinal systems into the country’s healthcare paradigm. Through the continued support and investment in this mission, India aims to preserve and advance its ancient healing traditions, ensuring that they remain an invaluable asset for future generations.