Promotion of Ayush based medical tourism

Why in news

The Government has adopted a comprehensive strategy to promote Ayush-based tourism in the country, including the introduction of a dedicated Ayush Visa and the launch of the Ayush Quality Mark.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Economy, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Government has adopted a comprehensive strategy to promote Ayush-based tourism in the country.
2. The Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism in consultation with other Ministries, including the Ministry of Ayush.
3. The Ayush Visa was introduced on 27 July 2023 to facilitate international visitors seeking Ayush-based treatment.
4. The Ayush Visa (M-3) and Ayush Attendant Visa (M-4) are distinct sub-categories under the Medical Visa.
5. The Ayush Quality Mark was launched at the Second Global Traditional Medicine Summit in December 2025.
6. The Ayush Quality Mark aims to ensure internationally accepted standards of quality, safety, and efficacy for specific categories of Ayush products and services.
7. The Ministry of Ayush has published and operationalized Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) for Ayush disciplines to support evidence-based clinical decision-making and promote uniformity in therapeutic approaches.

Prelims pointers

• The Ayush Visa (M-3) and Ayush Attendant Visa (M-4) are sub-categories of the Medical Visa.
• The National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism was formulated by the Ministry of Tourism in consultation with the Ministry of Ayush.
• The Ayush Quality Mark aims to ensure internationally accepted standards for Ayush products and services.
• Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) for Ayush disciplines are published and operationalized by the Ministry of Ayush.

Mains practice question

Discuss the comprehensive strategy adopted by the Government of India to promote Ayush-based medical tourism. How do initiatives like the Ayush Visa and Ayush Quality Mark contribute to positioning India as a global hub for traditional medicine and wellness?

Static linkage

This initiative links to India's rich heritage in traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy) and the government's broader efforts to promote medical and wellness tourism, enhance healthcare accessibility, and leverage India's soft power globally.

Significance

The promotion of Ayush-based medical tourism holds significant potential for India. It can boost the economy by attracting foreign exchange, creating employment opportunities in the healthcare and tourism sectors, and positioning India as a global leader in traditional medicine. The introduction of the Ayush Visa simplifies travel for international patients, while the Ayush Quality Mark and Standard Treatment Guidelines enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of Ayush treatments, ensuring quality and safety. This comprehensive strategy contributes to the global recognition and acceptance of India's traditional healing systems.