India Moving Gradually Towards Integration of Modern and Traditional Medicine Systems: AYUSH Secretary

India is taking measured and well-planned steps towards integrating modern medicine with its rich traditional healthcare systems, aiming to build a more holistic, patient-centric health ecosystem, according to Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of AYUSH.

Speaking on the sidelines of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Summit, Kotecha said the country’s approach to integration is gradual, evidence-based and collaborative, ensuring that both systems complement rather than compete with each other. He emphasized that the goal is not to replace modern medicine, but to enhance healthcare outcomes by combining scientific rigour with centuries-old medical wisdom.

“Integration cannot be rushed. It requires strong research, mutual respect between systems, and clear regulatory frameworks,” the AYUSH Secretary noted, adding that India is working closely with national and international stakeholders to develop credible models of collaborative healthcare.

India has already begun mainstreaming traditional medicine through co-location of AYUSH services in allopathic hospitals, primary health centres and district hospitals under the National AYUSH Mission. This enables patients to access multiple systems of care under one roof, especially in preventive, promotive and lifestyle-related health management.

Kotecha highlighted that scientific validation remains central to the integration process. The government is strengthening clinical research, quality control, pharmacovigilance and digital documentation to ensure the safety and effectiveness of traditional therapies. Initiatives such as the AYUSH Grid and the Traditional Medicine Global Library are helping bridge knowledge gaps and support evidence-based practice.

International cooperation is also playing a key role. India has held bilateral discussions with several countries to promote collaborative research, training programmes and institutional partnerships in traditional medicine. These efforts reflect growing global interest in integrative healthcare models, particularly in managing chronic diseases and improving preventive care.

The AYUSH Secretary also pointed to the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to modernise traditional medicine systems, making them more accessible, standardised and globally acceptable.

Health experts believe that India’s cautious but consistent integration strategy could offer a sustainable healthcare model that combines affordability, prevention and personalised care. As global health systems grapple with rising lifestyle disorders and healthcare costs, India’s integrative approach is drawing increasing international attention.

With policy support, scientific validation and global collaboration, India’s journey toward integrating modern and traditional medicine systems is steadily shaping a future where healthcare is not just curative, but truly holistic.