Calling for comprehensive reforms to preserve and promote India’s ancient Siddha medical system, the National Women Siddha Doctors’ Association (NWSDA) has submitted a memorandum to the government seeking immediate policy interventions to improve Siddha education, healthcare infrastructure, research, and employment opportunities for Siddha practitioners.
The memorandum outlines a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening Siddha medicine and ensuring that qualified Siddha doctors receive better institutional support. According to the association, the growing public interest in traditional medicine has highlighted the need for stronger investment in Siddha healthcare services and education.
One of the association’s primary demands is the establishment of a dedicated Siddha University. The NWSDA believes that an exclusive university would provide a stronger academic and research ecosystem, allowing Siddha medicine to advance through specialized education, postgraduate training, innovation, and international collaboration.
The association has also requested the government to create additional employment opportunities for Siddha doctors by filling existing vacancies in government hospitals, dispensaries, and teaching institutions. It emphasized that qualified practitioners should receive equal career growth opportunities and professional recognition within the AYUSH healthcare system.
Another key issue raised in the memorandum is the need to modernize Siddha healthcare infrastructure. The association has recommended upgrading government Siddha hospitals with improved diagnostic facilities, laboratories, inpatient services, and enhanced research capabilities. Such measures, it says, would improve patient care while expanding access to quality Siddha treatment across the country.
Expressing concern over the circulation of counterfeit and substandard Siddha medicines, the NWSDA has urged authorities to strengthen regulatory enforcement. The association has called for stricter quality-control mechanisms, regular inspections of manufacturing units, and stronger action against the production and sale of fake Siddha medicines to safeguard public health and preserve confidence in the traditional system.
The memorandum also highlights the importance of involving experienced Siddha practitioners in healthcare policy decisions. The association believes that greater representation of Siddha professionals in advisory bodies and policy-making committees would help shape practical reforms that benefit both doctors and patients.
Speaking on the broader vision behind the memorandum, representatives of the association noted that Siddha medicine has served communities for centuries and continues to play a significant role in preventive healthcare, chronic disease management, and holistic wellness. They stressed that sustained government support is essential to preserve this rich medical heritage while enabling it to meet the healthcare needs of modern society.
Government officials received the memorandum and assured the delegation that the recommendations would be forwarded to the appropriate departments for consideration. At the time of writing, no official announcement has been made regarding the implementation of the proposals.
The National Women Siddha Doctors’ Association expressed optimism that the government will take constructive steps to strengthen Siddha education, research, healthcare delivery, and the professional welfare of Siddha doctors in the coming years.