The Hindu Editorial Analysis
23 September 2025
The Growing Relevance of Traditional Medicine
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8)
Topic : GS Paper II – Governance | GS Paper III – Economy | GS Paper IV – Ethics
Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently highlighted that traditional medicine is practised in 88% of its member-states (170 out of 194 countries). For billions, especially in low- and middle-income countries, it remains the primary mode of healthcare due to accessibility and affordability.
India’s AYUSH transformation and the global acceptance of traditional medicine reflect a shift from reactive treatment to preventive and holistic health systems, with implications for sustainable development, biodiversity, and global diplomacy.
Key Issues and Arguments
1. Expansion of Global Traditional Medicine Market
- Expected to reach $583 billion by 2025 (10-20% growth rate).
- Examples: China ($122.4 billion), Australia ($3.97 billion), India ($43.4 billion).
- India’s AYUSH sector has grown nearly eight-fold in a decade, showing its economic and health significance.
2. India’s Ayurveda Transformation
- Over 92,000 AYUSH micro, small, and medium enterprises operational.
- Export value: $1.54 billion to over 150 countries.
- National Survey (2022-23): 95% rural, 96% urban coverage, Ayurveda is the preferred system for preventive & rejuvenation care.
3. Scientific Validation & Global Expansion
- Institutions: All India Institute of Ayurveda, National Institute of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences.
- Over 25 bilateral agreements, 52 institutional partnerships, 34 information cells abroad.
- Establishment of WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in India signals India’s global leadership in Ayurveda.
4. Technological Integration
- WHO highlights AI, big data, and predictive care models for Ayurveda.
- Digital tools strengthen clinical validation, standardisation, and credibility in modern science.
5. Philosophical & Ethical Dimensions
- Ayurveda’s core principle: balance between body-mind, humans-nature, and consumption-conservation.
- Extends to veterinary & plant health, biodiversity, and climate sustainability.
- Promotes wellness, not just treatment – preventive, inclusive, sustainable healthcare.
Policy Gaps Identified
| Area | Gaps |
|---|---|
| Research | Need more global-level scientific studies & peer-reviewed publications. |
| Regulation | Lack of uniform quality & safety standards in herbal products. |
| Integration | Still peripheral in mainstream public health systems. |
| Awareness | Limited consumer knowledge outside India. |
| Sustainability | Overharvesting threatens biodiversity. |
Suggestions for the Way Forward
- Mainstreaming in Healthcare – Integrate AYUSH with modern healthcare at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
- Global Leadership – Use Ayurveda as a soft power tool through diplomatic and cultural promotion.
- Scientific Rigor – Expand AI-based clinical trials, data validation, and standardisation of AYUSH practices.
- Sustainability – Promote biodiversity conservation alongside herbal medicine growth.
- Education & Awareness – Include Ayurveda-based preventive health in curricula (school & medical).
Conclusion
Traditional medicine is no longer an alternative but a mainstream pillar of global healthcare. For India, Ayurveda represents both heritage and future strategy — combining ancient wisdom with modern science to offer sustainable, affordable, and inclusive healthcare. As WHO’s 2025 theme, “Ayurveda for People & Planet”, suggests, India’s leadership can help bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary needs, ensuring health security for both humanity and the planet.