In a major step towards strengthening the global recognition of India’s traditional healthcare systems, the Ministry of Ayush recently conducted a detailed review meeting on the WHO-International Classification of Health Interventions (WHO-ICHI) Framework and the development of National Health Intervention Codes for Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani (ASU) systems.
The meeting brought together senior officials, healthcare experts, researchers, and representatives from various Ayush institutions to discuss how traditional Indian medical practices can be systematically integrated into international healthcare classification standards.
Held through virtual sessions over two days, the discussions focused on creating a standardised coding structure for treatments and procedures used in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medicine. Experts believe this initiative will improve documentation, digital healthcare integration, clinical research, and international collaboration in traditional medicine.
Speaking during the meeting, senior officials from the Ministry of Ayush highlighted that the move is part of India’s broader vision to position its traditional medicine systems on the global healthcare map. They stated that adopting internationally accepted intervention codes would help improve the scientific visibility and credibility of AYUSH treatments worldwide.
Technical experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) also participated in the sessions and shared guidance on aligning India’s traditional medicine practices with global health informatics standards. Various research councils presented draft intervention coding models and discussed methods for classifying therapies, procedures, and treatment approaches under the WHO-ICHI framework.
Separate technical discussions were conducted for Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani disciplines, allowing specialists to review coding structures and recommend refinements. Representatives from institutions such as CCRAS, CCRS, CCRUM, AIIA, ITRA, and NIUM actively participated in the deliberations.
Officials noted that the project is expected to play a crucial role in the future of digital healthcare, insurance documentation, medical research, and evidence-based traditional medicine practices. The finalised framework will also support international cooperation and data sharing related to traditional healthcare systems.
The Ministry of Ayush described the initiative as an important milestone in modernising and standardising India’s ancient systems of medicine while preserving their traditional roots and therapeutic value.
The discussions are expected to contribute towards the upcoming WHO-ICHI ASU Alpha Draft Editorial Workshop scheduled later this year.