Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush: ‘India’s Ayush sector registers remarkable growth, reaches $23 billion in 2024’
05-May-25 05:34:25
To further enhance global access, the ministry is actively addressing export challenges and developing a supportive ecosystem for the international growth of Ayush products and services,” he said. Excerpts:
There has been a rising demand for AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) products and services, with the sector registering an eightfold rise expanding from USD 2.85 billion in 2014 to an estimated USD 23 billion in 2024. “This growth underscores the increasing global demand for traditional Indian wellness products,” Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, told The Indian Express in an exclusive interview ahead of the National Ayush Mission (NAM) conclave on May 1 and 2 at Kaivalyadham, Lonavala. To further enhance global access, the ministry is actively addressing export challenges and developing a supportive ecosystem for the international growth of Ayush products and services,” he said. Excerpts:
What is the NAM conclave about on May 1 and 2?
The Ministry of Ayush is organising the National Ayush Mission (NAM) conclave on May 1 and 2 at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavala, under the chairmanship of Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (IC) for Ayush. The conclave aims for highest level discussions to chalk out future strategy of NAM, which is a centrally sponsored scheme being implemented through state/UT governments for overall development and promotion of Ayush healthcare system in the country.
What are the policy discussions about?
The conclave will reflect on the achievements of the NAM, address emerging challenges, and chart a path toward a self-reliant and robust Ayush healthcare system. The conclave covers diverse themes, including financial management, monitoring and evaluation, HR strengthening, integration with modern medicine, and quality assurance. It also showcases best practices, IT innovations, regulatory mechanisms and investment and export opportunities with rich experience sharing from states and UTs.
What strategy is being adopted to integrate ayurveda with modern medicine practice?
Mainstreaming the potential of AYUSH within a pluralistic system of healthcare is being envisioned through the new initiatives of the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The need for integrating AYUSH in the National Health Mission, research and education and strategies to meet national health goals through protocol driven integrative practices are being visualised. To further strengthen the integration of AYUSH in national public health initiatives, the Ministry of Ayush and MoHFW have jointly established a dedicated AYUSH vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). This significant step aims to ensure effective convergence of AYUSH within mainstream health programmes
What is the demand for ayurvedic treatment/products abroad?
The global demand for ayurvedic products and treatments is steadily rising, reflecting a growing international shift toward traditional and holistic health systems. India’s AYUSH sector has seen substantial growth, with the domestic market reaching USD 43.4 billion and maintaining a CAGR of 17% between 2014 and 2020. Currently, AYUSH products are being exported to 150 countries across the globe. We are also strengthening collaborations with various countries for joint research and establishing evidence-based standards. The ministry is also working closely with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to develop the International Harmonised Protocols (IHP), which will set global quality and efficacy standards for AYUSH products. Additionally, through streamlined regulatory guidelines, quality assurance and expanded clinical research, the ministry is ensuring that AYUSH products and services meet international benchmarks, fostering wider acceptance and access worldwide.