Upgrading Ayush dispensaries under National Ayush Mission (NAM)

Why in news

The operationalization of 12500 Ayush Health & Wellness Centres (now Ayushman Arogya Mandir) by upgrading existing Ayush dispensaries and sub-health centres under the National Ayush Mission (NAM) has been approved. Significant funds have been allocated and utilized for this purpose over the last two financial years. The strategy of co-locating Ayush facilities with primary healthcare centres is also highlighted.

Exam relevance

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

Key facts

1. 12500 Ayush Health & Wellness Centres (now Ayushman Arogya Mandir) approved for operationalization.
2. These centres are being upgraded from 10941 Ayush Dispensaries and 1559 Sub Health Centres.
3. Rs. 1872.71 Crore allocated/released under NAM in the last two financial years.
4. Rs. 1802.15 Crore utilized under NAM in the last two financial years.
5. Strategy of co-location of Ayush facilities at PHCs, CHCs, and DHs adopted.
6. 6302 PHCs, 3191 CHCs, and 475 DHs have been co-located as of 31.12.2025.
7. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare supports Ayush doctors/paramedics and their training under NHM.
8. Ministry of Ayush supports Ayush infrastructure, equipment, furniture, and medicines under NAM.

Prelims pointers

• National Ayush Mission (NAM) aims to operationalize Ayush Health & Wellness Centres.
• Ayush Health & Wellness Centres are now known as Ayushman Arogya Mandir.
• Co-location of Ayush facilities with Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and District Hospitals (DHs) is a key strategy.
• Ministry of Ayush supports Ayush infrastructure and medicines under NAM.
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare supports Ayush doctors and training under NHM.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of the National Ayush Mission (NAM) in enhancing healthcare accessibility and integration in India, with specific reference to the strategy of co-locating Ayush facilities with primary healthcare centres.

Static linkage

National Ayush Mission (NAM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched by the Ministry of Ayush to improve Ayush healthcare services in India. It aims to strengthen Ayush institutions and provide access to Ayush treatments. The co-location strategy aligns with the broader goals of the National Health Mission (NHM) to integrate different healthcare systems.

Significance

The initiative signifies a push towards strengthening the Ayush sector by upgrading existing infrastructure and making services more accessible. Co-location of Ayush facilities with mainstream healthcare centres (PHCs, CHCs, DHs) offers patients a choice of treatment systems, potentially leading to a more holistic approach to healthcare. The significant fund allocation and utilization indicate a commitment to improving Ayush healthcare delivery. Support from both the Ministry of Ayush and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare highlights an integrated approach to healthcare.