The Central Government has revealed plans to establish regional medical hubs to support Medical Value Tourism (MVT) and enhance the AYUSH ecosystem. These hubs will focus on providing quality healthcare, conducting research, creating job opportunities, and expanding global outreach. In her recent budget presentation, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled various measures to position India as a leading destination for Medical Value Tourism and to elevate traditional Indian medicine internationally.
The proposed regional medical hubs will incorporate AYUSH centers, Medical Value Tourism facilitation centers, and advanced facilities for diagnostics, treatment, post-treatment care, and rehabilitation. These hubs are anticipated to enhance the overall patient experience for both local and international visitors, while also fostering significant employment prospects for healthcare professionals. Prof. Dr. Tanuja Nesari, Director of the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar (Gujarat), expressed gratitude towards the government for its increased financial backing to the AYUSH sector.
One of the key highlights of the budget is the decision to upgrade the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar under the Ministry of AYUSH. This upgrade aims to boost evidence-based research, training, and global awareness of traditional medicine systems. Dr. Nesari hailed these budgetary initiatives as groundbreaking, emphasizing their role in meeting the rising global demand for AYUSH services and reinforcing India’s leadership in traditional medicine on the global stage.
India’s prominence in traditional healthcare has been on the rise, with practices like Yoga and Ayurveda gaining international recognition. The surge in global demand for AYUSH products has not only benefited medicinal plant farmers but has also provided opportunities for youth involved in processing and value addition. The new initiatives seek to integrate traditional practices with modern healthcare frameworks, enhance India’s soft power, and establish the nation as a reputable global destination for holistic and evidence-based healthcare.
