Maharashtra Plans Wider AYUSH Healthcare Network to Promote Ayurveda and Preventive Care

State Government to Strengthen AYUSH Services

Maharashtra is set to expand and strengthen its AYUSH healthcare network across the state, with a focus on making traditional healthcare services more accessible to people in both urban and rural areas.

Public Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar announced the plan while speaking at an Ayurveda Day program organized by the National AYUSH Mission at the Directorate of Health Services in Mumbai. The event was held as part of Ayurveda Day and the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. Minister of State for Public Health and Family Welfare Meghana Sakore-Bordikar also attended the program.

Abitkar said Ayurveda, which originated in India, has gained recognition around the world. He emphasized the importance of combining Ayurveda, yoga and a balanced diet with preventive healthcare and healthy daily habits.

Ayurveda and Yoga Highlighted for Preventive Healthcare

The minister said Ayurveda should not be viewed only as a treatment option after an illness develops. He encouraged people to adopt healthy food choices, yoga and Ayurvedic practices as part of their regular lifestyle.

The Maharashtra government plans to further develop AYUSH services and improve their availability across different parts of the state. The approach is aimed at giving citizens access to a wider range of healthcare options while promoting wellness and disease prevention.

AYUSH Services Available at More Than 650 Locations

According to the information shared at the event, AYUSH services are currently available at 261 health institutions across Maharashtra under the National AYUSH Mission. In addition, AYUSH treatment facilities are available at 390 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.

Together, these facilities provide AYUSH services at more than 650 locations across the state. Government initiatives such as Ayush Gram, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and International Yoga Day are also being used to encourage awareness about traditional healthcare and healthy living.

Abitkar said the state will continue working to extend these services and make them more effective for citizens in different regions.

New Booklets Promote Healthy Living

Three publications focused on Ayurveda and wellness were released during the program. These included booklets on Traditional Food Recipes, Ayurveda for the Future, and Ayurveda’s Support in Old Age.

The materials aim to provide useful information on traditional food practices, Ayurveda and healthy living, including ways these approaches can support people as they age.

Focus on Better Coordination With Modern Healthcare

Abitkar also highlighted the importance of building public confidence in AYUSH treatment systems. He said efforts should focus on moving beyond awareness campaigns and ensuring that AYUSH services reach people effectively.

The minister also called for better coordination between AYUSH and modern healthcare systems. Such coordination can help provide citizens with broader healthcare services and more options for managing their health.

Ayurveda Day Activities Across Maharashtra

Several activities promoting yoga, balanced diets, Ayurveda and healthy lifestyles are being organized as part of Seva Saptah and Ayurveda Day programs. This year's theme is “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow.”

Officials said these initiatives are intended to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles and understand the role of preventive healthcare.

Senior officials, including Public Health Department Secretary Dr. Nipun Vinayak, Secretary E. Ravindran, Health Services Commissioner Sanjay Katkar, Urban Health Services Commissioner Dr. Sunil Bhokare, AYUSH Mission Director Vaidya Raman Ghungralekar, Health Services Director Dr. Nitin Ambadekar, Director Dr. Vijay Kandevad and Joint Director Dr. Archana Bhosale, attended the program along with medical officers, yoga trainers and other officials through video conferencing.