AYUSH Ministry proposes expanding traditional healthcare services across military hospitals
The initiative seeks to integrate evidence-based wellness, rehabilitation and preventive care into the Armed Forces' medical network through dedicated outpatient facilities and institutional collaboration.
In a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Jadhav said integrating India's traditional systems of medicine with the existing healthcare infrastructure would complement modern medical services and provide Armed Forces personnel with greater access to preventive, promotive and rehabilitative healthcare.
NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH Prataprao Jadhav has proposed the expansion of AYUSH treatment services across Military and Field Hospitals, recommending the establishment of dedicated AYUSH outpatient departments (OPDs) to strengthen holistic healthcare for defence personnel.
In a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday, Jadhav said integrating India’s traditional systems of medicine with the existing healthcare infrastructure would complement modern medical services and provide Armed Forces personnel with greater access to preventive, promotive and rehabilitative healthcare.
The minister acknowledged the significant role played by the Armed Forces Medical Services in delivering healthcare to soldiers serving in diverse and challenging operational environments. While noting the strength of the existing modern medical infrastructure, he said incorporating evidence-based AYUSH therapies could further enhance the overall health and well-being of defence personnel.
Jadhav pointed out that although AYUSH facilities are available in a limited number of defence institutions, many Military and Field Hospitals do not yet offer dedicated AYUSH services. Expanding these facilities, he said, would improve access to preventive healthcare, lifestyle management, rehabilitation and holistic treatment options for soldiers.
He emphasised that the proposed initiative would support a more comprehensive and patient-centric healthcare model while promoting the integration of India’s traditional medical systems into the national public healthcare framework.
The minister has requested the Ministry of Defence to consider establishing AYUSH OPDs and treatment facilities across all Military and Field Hospitals. He also assured that the Ministry of AYUSH is ready to provide technical expertise, professional guidance and institutional support, including signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to facilitate implementation.
According to the ministry, the proposal reflects the government’s continued focus on promoting an integrated healthcare model and extending the benefits of India’s traditional systems of medicine to a wider section of society, including members of the Armed Forces.
