Ministry of Ayush has proposed expanding traditional medicine services across the Military and Field Hospitals of India, with a focus on preventive, promotive and holistic healthcare for defence personnel.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, suggesting the establishment of Ayush outpatient departments (OPDs) and treatment facilities in military healthcare institutions.

In his letter, Jadhav acknowledged the role of the Armed Forces Medical Services in delivering healthcare to soldiers serving in diverse and often demanding operational conditions. He said that while the Armed Forces already have a strong modern medical infrastructure, integrating Ayush systems could strengthen preventive care, lifestyle management, rehabilitation and overall well-being.

According to the proposal, Ayush facilities are currently available only in a limited number of institutions under the Ministry of Defence. Many Military and Field Hospitals do not have dedicated traditional medicine services. The minister argued that expanding these facilities would improve access to evidence-based Ayush treatments for defence personnel.

Jadhav said the inclusion of Ayush services would complement the existing healthcare framework rather than replace conventional medical care. He added that the initiative could contribute to a more comprehensive and patient-centric healthcare model while promoting the integration of India's traditional systems of medicine into public healthcare.

The Ayush Ministry has requested the Defence Ministry to consider setting up Ayush OPDs and treatment facilities in all Military and Field Hospitals. It has also offered technical support, professional guidance and institutional cooperation, including the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to facilitate implementation.

If approved, the proposal would mark a broader collaboration between the Ministries of Ayush and Defence for extending traditional healthcare services to members of the Armed Forces.