Andhra Pradesh Government Launches Major AYUSH Modernization Drive
In a significant push to bolster traditional healthcare systems, the Medical and Health Department of Andhra Pradesh has initiated a comprehensive modernization project for 150 AYUSH health centers across the state, with a substantial investment of Rs 44 crore. This ambitious initiative, undertaken under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM) for the 2025-26 period, is designed to upgrade infrastructure and significantly expand access to Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy services, particularly targeting rural and underserved regions.
Project Details and Current Progress
According to official statements, the modernization efforts encompass 90 existing AYUSH centers undergoing renovation and 60 brand-new facilities being constructed within government hospitals. The distribution includes 26 centers in Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 26 in Community Health Centres (CHCs), and eight in district hospitals. Authorities report that approximately 50% of the construction and upgradation work has already been successfully completed, indicating rapid progress on the ground.
The Andhra Pradesh Medical Services and Infrastructure Development Corporation (APMSIDC) is overseeing the execution of all construction and enhancement activities. Every facility is being developed in strict adherence to the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) and the branding guidelines of Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM), ensuring uniformity and quality.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Strategic Locations
Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav provided detailed insights into the project's specifications. "Each modernized center will be equipped with essential infrastructure, including dedicated rooms for medical officers, fully functional pharmacy units, organized reception areas, and improved sanitation facilities. This is aimed at ensuring superior service delivery and a better patient experience," he stated.
Minister Yadav further announced that new AYUSH centers are being established in district hospitals at key locations including Eluru, Machilipatnam, Ongole, Chittoor, Kadapa, Kurnool, and Nandyal. Each of these new units is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh. He confirmed that the works are advancing at a brisk pace and are expected to be fully completed within the next two months.
Political Context and Expected Impact
In a pointed political remark, Health Minister Yadav alleged that AYUSH services were largely neglected during the previous YSRCP government's tenure, resulting in dilapidated buildings and inadequate facilities across several centers. He emphasized that the current administration is rectifying this oversight through substantial investment and focused development.
The government anticipates that this upgraded infrastructure will dramatically enhance the reach, accessibility, and overall quality of traditional healthcare services throughout Andhra Pradesh. By integrating modern amenities with ancient medicinal practices, the project seeks to provide a holistic and robust healthcare alternative, especially in areas where allopathic services may be limited.
