During the National Ayush Mission Conclave 2023, a roundtable discussion was held with the participation of Health and Ayush Ministers from states and UTs governments. The focus of the discussion was to strengthen Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) infrastructure through the National Ayush Mission in states and UTs. Union Minister of Ayush & Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, and Minister of State for Ayush, Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai, were present, along with several state government officials.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the importance of sharing old knowledge and practices of Ayush among state governments. He encouraged the participants to promote yoga in their respective states to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2023.
Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai acknowledged the increase in the number of Ayush Wellness Centers (AHWCs) and the integrated Ayush healthcare system, which has connected people with Ayush healthcare services. He urged states and UTs to work towards enabling more people to benefit from these services.
Various state government officials also shared their initiatives and achievements in promoting Ayush healthcare. Shri Daya Shankar Mishra from Uttar Pradesh highlighted the conversion of 552 government hospitals into Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs). Shri Ram Kishore Kawre from Madhya Pradesh mentioned the promotion of herb and medicinal plant farming and the progress made in achieving the targets for HWCs and dispensaries. Shri Banna Gupta from Jharkhand stressed the need for a research center for medicinal plants and explored the potential of medical tourism in the state.
Shri Keshab Mehanta from Assam discussed the ongoing preparations for Community Health Officer (CHO) interviews and the proposal for an Ayush rehabilitative program for drug users. Health Ministers from Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram also highlighted their efforts to establish HWCs in remote areas and the need for additional manpower.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, and Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, along with senior officials of the National Ayush Mission, were present in the meeting to provide an overview of the National Ayush Mission and discuss ways to strengthen Ayush services infrastructure through the mission.