NITI Aayog Releases Roadmap for Global Ayurveda

NITI Aayog released a report titled Strategic Roadmap for Making Ayurveda Global on 2 July 2026 in collaboration with PwC. The roadmap sets a phased plan up to 2047 for Ayurveda as an evidence-based healthcare system with wider international recognition.

Ayurveda and Global Health Systems

Ayurveda is one of the traditional systems of medicine in India and is part of the Ayush framework, which also includes Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy. The roadmap refers to formal recognition of Ayurveda in nearly 30 countries, with different levels of licensing and policy integration.

Research, Validation and Safety

The report proposes multi-country clinical trials for scientific validation of Ayurvedic formulations. It also recommends annual global evidence and safety reports and targeted research on diseases where Ayurveda has therapeutic use. The roadmap includes modernisation of the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library and a patent watch mechanism. These measures are linked to protection of traditional knowledge and innovation in Indian systems of medicine.

Trade, Exports and Medical Value Travel

Ayush product exports increased from US1.09 billion in 2014 to US2.16 billion in 2023. These products reached about 150 countries, while many exports remained classified as dietary supplements because of regulatory requirements in foreign markets. The roadmap seeks to shift exports from basic supplements to regulated medicines with global market access. It also proposes international Ayurveda treatment hubs, Ayurveda medical value travel zones in India, and bundled Ayush visa packages.

Important Facts for Exams

• Ayurveda is one of the oldest documented medical systems in India and is associated with classical texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
• The Traditional Knowledge Digital Library was created to document traditional Indian medical knowledge and prevent misappropriation of prior art.
• Ayush is an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy.
• Medical value travel refers to travel across borders for diagnosis, treatment or wellness services.

Institutional Framework and Outreach

The roadmap proposes a high-level Mission Steering Group chaired by the Minister of Ayush for phased implementation up to 2047. It also recommends a Global Ayurveda Forum, Ayurveda experience centres in cities such as Geneva, New York, London, Singapore and Tokyo, and Ayurveda electives in international medical schools.