New Delhi, April 17 (BNP): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, on Wednesday inaugurated the two-day “Ayush Chintan Shivir 2026” in the national capital.
The event, which concludes on April 17, is aimed at reviewing progress, strengthening policy direction, and charting a future roadmap for the Ayush sector, officials said.
Addressing the gathering, Jadhav said the Chintan Shivir reflects the government’s commitment to reinforcing policy implementation and institutional capacity in Ayush. He noted that the platform would help assess achievements since the previous conclave and identify gaps for future action. He also underlined the growing role of Ayush in addressing lifestyle diseases through a holistic approach.
Highlighting the government’s focus, the minister pointed to increased budget allocations for education, research, infrastructure, and global outreach. He stressed the need for evidence-based research, innovation, digitalisation, and greater public awareness, expressing confidence that Ayush will play a key role in achieving the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision.
Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, described the Shivir as an important platform for policy review and long-term planning, adding that efforts are underway to integrate traditional knowledge with modern science and expand global collaboration.
Joint Secretary Alarmelmangai D. said the initiative promotes collaborative policymaking and noted the rising national and international recognition of Ayush systems.
A key highlight of the inaugural session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and the General Insurance Council to expand insurance coverage and streamline claim settlements for Ayush treatments.
The minister also launched the Ministry’s official WhatsApp channel to enhance citizen engagement and released a document on revised benchmark rates for insurance coverage of Ayush therapies. A toll-free helpline (1800-11-0008) for Ayush insurance was also introduced.
The first day featured three thematic sessions focusing on review of earlier outcomes, strengthening research and global partnerships, and improving legal preparedness in the sector, officials added.
