NITI Aayog Launches Report on "Strategic Roadmap for Making Ayurveda Global"
Key Points
NITI Aayog has unveiled a strategic roadmap to globalize Ayurveda, emphasizing its integration into international health systems. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2 and 3, as it addresses health and international relations. Last Updated: 04-07-2026
Key Facts About Ayurveda's Globalization
- Ayurveda exports surged from USD 1.09 billion in 2014 to USD 2.16 billion in 2023, reaching 150 countries.
- Formally recognized in nearly 30 countries through licensing and collaborations.
- India has over 355,000 trained Ayurveda practitioners, with 95% based domestically.
- WHO's Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar supports Ayurveda research in 70 countries.
- Ayurveda is part of WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).
- Ayurveda's integration into the International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI) is ongoing.
Ayurveda's Role in India's Global Health Strategy
Ayurveda's globalization aligns with India's strategic goals of enhancing its soft power and economic growth through wellness tourism and exports. With a global wellness market valued at USD 1 trillion, Ayurveda's integration can significantly boost India's economic and cultural influence. Comparatively, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a stronger global presence, highlighting the need for strategic advancements in Ayurveda.
UPSC Relevance
GS Paper 2: International Relations - India's soft power and health diplomacy.
GS Paper 3: Economic Development - Role of Ayurveda in boosting exports and wellness tourism.
Prelims: Questions on export figures, WHO initiatives, and global recognition.
Mains: Essays on traditional medicine's role in global health and India's strategic positioning.
FAQ Section
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India, focusing on holistic wellness and natural therapies.
Why is Ayurveda important?
Ayurveda offers personalized healthcare solutions and aligns with the global trend towards preventive and holistic healthcare.
What are the key features of Ayurveda's globalization?
Key features include increased exports, international recognition, and integration into WHO's health classifications.
Detailed Coverage
- Export Growth: Ayurveda exports rose from USD 1.09 billion in 2014 to USD 2.16 billion in 2023.
- Global Recognition: Recognized in nearly 30 countries through various models.
- Workforce: Over 355,000 Ayurveda practitioners in India, with limited international mobility.
- Research: Ayurveda research spans nearly 70 countries, supported by WHO initiatives.
- Strengths: Holistic approach aligns with global healthcare trends.
- Weaknesses: Limited formal recognition and regulatory frameworks in many countries.
- Opportunities: Initiatives like Ayush Chairs and scholarships could enhance outreach.
- Threats: Competition from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and regulatory challenges.
- Comparison: Ayurveda has fewer practitioners and lower global exports compared to TCM.
- Short Term Goals: Establish a Mission Steering Group and a Global Ayurveda Register by 2029.
- Medium Term Goals: Register key formulations under EU directives by 2035.
- Long Term Goals: Achieve formal recognition in 20 national health systems by 2047.
- Conclusion: NITI Aayog aims to elevate Ayurveda as a trusted global healthcare system.
- News Impact: Highlights the roadmap for enhancing Ayurveda's international presence.