India to Incorporate Ayurveda into Educational Curriculum

The Indian government is taking significant steps to integrate Ayurveda into the educational curriculum, allowing students to learn about this ancient practice alongside modern subjects. Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav announced collaborations with educational bodies to develop course materials aimed at promoting wellness and preventive care. This initiative not only seeks to connect the youth with traditional health systems but also aims for global recognition of Ayurveda through evidence-based research. By establishing a balanced approach to healthcare, the government envisions a future where integrated healthcare becomes the norm, preparing students for a holistic understanding of health.

By Ambika Singh Sep 29, 2025, 22:35 IST

Introduction to Ayurveda in Education

New Delhi, September 29, 2025 – The Indian government is set to introduce Ayurveda into the educational framework, allowing students to learn about this ancient practice as part of their regular studies. This initiative aims to promote traditional knowledge alongside contemporary education.

Collaboration Between Educational Bodies

Union Minister of AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, announced that the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the University Grants Commission (UGC) are collaborating to create course materials focused on Ayurveda. These educational modules will be implemented in schools and universities nationwide as part of health education initiatives.

Vision for Ayurveda in Education

Minister Jadhav stated that the goal of integrating Ayurveda is to connect youth with India's traditional holistic health systems. He emphasized, “We aim to educate students about wellness principles and preventive care rooted in Ayurveda, fostering a more comprehensive approach to healthcare in the future.”

State-Level Initiatives

Several states, including Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, have already begun incorporating elements of the Indian Knowledge System into their educational curricula. This central initiative will establish a standardized framework across the country.

Global Recognition and Research Initiatives

The AYUSH Ministry is actively working to elevate Ayurveda's status internationally. To enhance its credibility, the ministry is focusing on evidence-based research. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) is conducting rigorous clinical trials to substantiate traditional treatments.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), efforts are being made to establish scientific standards for Ayurvedic practices. Jadhav remarked, “Our goal is for Ayurveda to be recognized globally not just as a traditional system but as a scientifically validated healthcare model.”

Integrating Ayurveda with Modern Medicine

A key objective of the government is to create an integrated healthcare model. Jadhav clarified that Ayurveda and allopathy should be viewed as complementary rather than competitive. “Through initiatives like the National AYUSH Mission and AYUSH Grid, we aim to merge the strengths of both systems, providing more comprehensive healthcare solutions,” he added.

The Ministry is also placing doctors in Health and Wellness Centres, especially in rural and remote regions, to ensure that primary healthcare services are accessible to all communities.

Enhancing Infrastructure and Education

Over the last decade, the Ministry of AYUSH has significantly expanded its outreach. Jadhav noted that the government has successfully established Ayurveda and other traditional systems as credible healthcare options. There are ongoing efforts to set up AYUSH health centers and medicinal gardens across the nation under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM).

The forthcoming curriculum, once completed, will not only safeguard traditional medical knowledge but also promote scientific inquiry and innovation in the field. By incorporating Ayurveda into mainstream education, India aims to foster awareness about preventive healthcare and sustainable living among students.

Balanced Development Approach

The minister highlighted that the government is committed to balanced and inclusive growth. Each medical discipline, whether modern or traditional, will receive equal emphasis. The ministry is also investing in research and educational reforms to ensure that all healthcare systems flourish while maintaining their distinct identities.

Conclusion

The government's initiative to include Ayurveda in educational syllabi underscores India's dedication to reviving traditional wisdom while aligning it with modern research and global standards. For students, this development means access to knowledge that merges ancient practices with contemporary scientific understanding, preparing them for a future where integrated healthcare could become standard.