Why in news?
The Ministry of Ayush recently informed Parliament about a central sector scheme aimed at taking India’s traditional medicine systems — Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy — to the global stage. The programme seeks to boost exports and encourage academic and research collaborations.
Background
India’s Ayush systems have gained worldwide popularity in recent decades, yet international acceptance and market access remain limited. To address this, the government launched the Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation (SPIC). The scheme’s objectives are to generate awareness about Ayush abroad, support trade and facilitate recognition of Ayush practices in other countries’ health systems.
Main components
- Exchange of experts and information: The scheme funds visits of Ayush experts, doctors and scholars to foreign countries and brings foreign experts to India for training and conferences. These exchanges help share best practices and scientific research.
- Participation in trade fairs and exhibitions: Indian manufacturers and service providers receive incentives to showcase Ayush products and therapies at international fairs and health conferences. This promotes exports and attracts potential investors.
- Ayush information cells and chairs abroad: The ministry supports establishing Ayush information cells in Indian embassies and universities overseas. It also helps set up Ayush academic chairs in foreign institutions, encouraging teaching and research in traditional medicine.
- International scholarships: Foreign nationals interested in learning Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha or Homoeopathy can apply for fellowships and scholarships under the scheme. This builds a global pool of practitioners and researchers.
- Collaborations with international bodies: India works with the World Health Organization and other agencies to include traditional medicine systems in international health classifications and standards.
Conclusion
The Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation positions India as a global hub for traditional medicine. By supporting exchanges, academic chairs and market development, the programme aims to expand the reach of Ayush therapies while ensuring quality and scientific validation.
Sources: Press Information Bureau