Union Budget 2026-27 Proposes Major Boost for Ayurveda and Ayush Sector in Kerala
The traditional medicine system in Kerala, particularly ayurveda, stands to gain significantly from the proposals introduced in the Union Budget 2026-27 for the Ayush sector. Experts have welcomed the government's decision to implement quality assurance measures and research-based management frameworks, which could transform Kerala into an authentic hub for ayurvedic practices across the country.
Quality Assurance and Infrastructure Development Initiatives
The Budget outlines comprehensive plans to upgrade Ayush pharmacies and drug testing laboratories to meet higher certification standards. This initiative aims to strengthen the quality-assurance ecosystem for ayurvedic and other traditional medicines while creating increased demand for skilled personnel in the field. Dr Rajmohan V of Government Ayurveda College in Thiruvananthapuram emphasized the importance of these measures, noting that Kerala already has a robust regulatory framework and numerous classical formulations in practice.
The state government has further reinforced proprietary medicinal practices through institutions like Kerala Oushadhi, creating a solid foundation for the proposed upgrades. These developments are expected to bring tertiary care standards to ayurveda in Kerala, elevating the traditional practice to new levels of professional excellence and global recognition.
Medical Tourism Integration and Research Advancements
One of the most significant proposals involves establishing Ayush centers within five proposed regional medical value tourism hubs. This strategic integration will combine Ayush services with comprehensive medical tourism complexes that include diagnostic facilities, post-care services, and rehabilitation programs. Such integration promises to position ayurveda as a central component of India's medical tourism offerings.
The Budget also includes plans to upgrade the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, which will bolster evidence-based research, training programs, and global awareness initiatives for traditional medicine systems. This international collaboration opportunity comes at an opportune time as Kerala prepares to inaugurate its own International Research Institute of Ayurveda in Kannur on February 20.
Kerala's Complementary Initiatives and Future Prospects
Kerala's upcoming research institute in Kannur will focus extensively on studying the medicinal wealth of the Western Ghats and establishing a manuscript research center during its initial phase. Dr Rajmohan highlighted the potential synergy between state and national initiatives, suggesting that by the time the Jamnagar institute receives its upgrades, Kerala's research outputs could be integrated with the global center's work.
The combined effect of these budget proposals and Kerala's existing initiatives creates a promising landscape for ayurveda's development:
- Enhanced quality standards for ayurvedic medicines and practices
- Increased research capabilities through upgraded facilities
- Integration with medical tourism for broader accessibility
- Global collaboration opportunities through WHO partnerships
- Development of skilled professionals in traditional medicine
As these proposals move toward implementation, Kerala's ayurveda sector appears positioned to leverage both governmental support and its own historical expertise to establish itself as a leading destination for authentic traditional medicine practices, research, and education in the coming years.
