Andhra Pradesh requests ₹257 crore to enhance AYUSH sector services

A.P. Seeks ₹257 Crore Central Funds to Boost AYUSH Sector: Health Minister

The Andhra Pradesh government has submitted a proposal to the National AYUSH Mission, requesting ₹257 crore under its Annual Action Plan for the financial year 2026–27. The funds aim to strengthen AYUSH infrastructure and services across the State, Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav announced on Thursday.

Integrated Hospitals and Colleges Planned

Speaking at a conference of AYUSH practitioners in Vijayawada, Yadav outlined plans to establish integrated AYUSH hospitals in six locations—Tirupati, Giddalur, Nandigama, Tenali, Tekkali, and Rampachodavaram—each costing ₹15 crore. Additionally, major investments are earmarked for developing Ayurveda colleges in Dharmavaram and Pithapuram, along with a Unani college in Proddatur, at a combined cost of ₹210 crore.

The construction of a ₹70-crore Naturopathy Medical College in Visakhapatnam is nearing completion, while new buildings for AYUSH Health Mandirs are also in their final stages. These initiatives reflect the government's focus on expanding AYUSH facilities statewide.

Recruitment and Surgical Approvals

Since 2024, 216 AYUSH doctors have been recruited to bolster healthcare delivery in the sector. The government has also approved 58 surgical procedures in Ayurveda, though implementation will follow consultations with stakeholders and efforts to raise public awareness.

Criticism of Previous Government Efforts

Yadav contrasted the current administration’s efforts with those of the previous TDP-led NDA government, which secured ₹85 crore in 2024–25 and ₹166 crore in 2025–26 under the National AYUSH Mission. He criticised the YSRCP government for allegedly failing to obtain adequate Central assistance during its tenure.

Allopathy and AYUSH: Complementary Roles

The Minister clarified that promoting AYUSH does not undermine allopathic medicine, which remains crucial for emergency care and complex surgeries. This balanced approach underscores the government’s commitment to holistic healthcare development.

Why It Matters

The ₹257 crore proposal is part of Andhra Pradesh’s broader strategy to expand AYUSH services, including traditional systems like Ayurveda, Homoeopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Naturopathy. With integrated hospitals, upgraded colleges, and enhanced recruitment, the State aims to make alternative medicine more accessible while complementing allopathic healthcare.

Source: The Hindu