Introduction to AYUSH and the Need for Regulation

The AYUSH system, encompassing Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy, has been a cornerstone of traditional Indian medicine for centuries. Recently, a parliamentary committee has recommended a significant overhaul in how AYUSH drugs are regulated, suggesting the establishment of a single independent drug controller. This move aims to streamline the standard-setting processes for AYUSH drugs, ensuring they align with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and its associated rules.

The Recommendation for a Single Independent Drug Controller

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare has emphasized the need for consolidating all AYUSH drug-related standard-setting processes under a unified regulatory body. This recommendation is part of the committee's 165th report on "Demands for Grants 2025-26 (Demand No. 4) of Ministry of Ayush," presented in the Rajya Sabha. The committee believes that such a system will enhance the scientific testing and evaluation of AYUSH drug samples, thereby ensuring their safety, efficacy, and quality.

Key Benefits of a Unified Regulatory Framework

• Enhanced Efficiency and Uniformity: A single independent drug controller will streamline the regulatory process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring that all AYUSH drugs meet uniform standards.
• Improved Research and Standardization: By coordinating efforts between bodies like the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) and the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), the sector can focus on more comprehensive research and standardization.
• Increased Global Acceptance: A well-regulated AYUSH sector can boost India's global reputation in traditional medicine, potentially increasing exports and attracting foreign investment.

Promoting AYUSH Globally

The committee also highlighted the potential of promoting AYUSH-related healthcare travel to India. It suggested that the Ministry of Ayush should develop strategies to vigorously promote the AYUSH system in international markets. This includes collaborating with first-world countries like the UK and the US to increase awareness among the Indian diaspora and native citizens.

Strategies for Global Promotion

• Road Shows and CMEs: Organizing road shows abroad and Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs for foreign audiences can help build credibility and interest in AYUSH systems.
• Strategic Marketing: Utilizing professional marketing agencies and leveraging social media can enhance the global visibility of AYUSH products.
• Collaboration with WHO: The establishment of a WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar, Gujarat, is seen as a significant step towards global recognition of traditional medicine.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges to implementing these recommendations. The state-wise reach of initiatives like Arogya Fair/Ayurveda Parv is currently limited, and the committee has suggested expanding this to cover at least 50% of Indian states in the coming year.

Key Challenges

• Implementation and Awareness: Effective implementation of the IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) Scheme is crucial for generating awareness about AYUSH systems among the masses, especially in rural and tribal areas.
• Financial and Physical Performance: Ensuring adequate budgetary allocation and meeting set objectives under international cooperation schemes will be vital for the success of these initiatives.

Conclusion

The recommendation for a single independent drug controller for AYUSH marks a significant step towards modernizing and standardizing traditional Indian medicine. By enhancing research, standardization, and global promotion, India can not only improve public health delivery but also position itself as a leader in the global traditional medicine market.