Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath envisions Uttar Pradesh emerging as a major hub in the AYUSH market, leveraging its diverse agricultural climate, abundant water resources, and skilled human capital. With its growing reputation as a favored destination for health tourism, the state is aligning its efforts to develop world-class infrastructure to realize this vision and boost the sector on a global scale.
It is undeniable that the popularity of Ayurveda has surged both in India and globally following the COVID-19 pandemic. According to government data, the AYUSH market in the country grew from $2.85 billion in 2014 to $43.4 billion in 2023. Additionally, exports from this sector have more than doubled. These figures demonstrate that the global recognition of traditional Indian medical systems is steadily expanding.
Yoga and Ayurveda have long been integral to the traditions of Gorakshapeeth in Gorakhpur, where Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath leads efforts in promoting both fields. The modern practice of Yoga is widely regarded as a gift from Guru Gorakhnath, and the Ayurveda Centre, established in memory of Brahmalin Mahant Digvijay Nath, was the first medical unit of the Peeth. This historical connection drives Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision for Uttar Pradesh to become a dominant player in the AYUSH market, leveraging its diverse agricultural climate, abundant water resources, and skilled human resources. The state is also set to become a premier destination for health tourism. In alignment with this vision, world-class infrastructure is being developed.
The establishment of Uttar Pradesh’s first AYUSH University in Gorakhpur, named after Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath, alongside the Government Ayurvedic Medical College in Ayodhya and the Government Homeopathic Medical College in Varanasi, are key steps toward realizing this goal.
The foundation for this university, located on a 52-acre site in Pipri, Bhathat, was laid by then-President Ram Nath Kovind in August 2021. The university is now nearing completion, with OPD services already operational.
In addition to postgraduate programs, Ayush University will offer a range of timely new courses, including PhDs. Alongside traditional courses in all medical systems related to AYUSH, innovative courses will be introduced to meet contemporary needs.
Following the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, officials from the AYUSH Department are conducting a comparative study of AYUSH courses offered in other states. A framework for launching a dozen new courses, including PhDs, has already been developed.
As per the action plan for Ayush University’s courses, offerings will include PhD programs, BSc Nursing in Ayurveda, B Pharma Ayurveda, B Pharma Homeopathy, B Pharma Unani, Diplomas in Panchkarma Assistant and Panchkarma Therapist, a Diploma for Foreign Students, Ksharsutra, Agnikarma, Uttarvasti, Yoga Naturopathy, and various certificate courses. OPD services have already begun benefiting patients.
By promoting the AYUSH medical system, new employment opportunities will arise in AYUSH Health Tourism.
Agriculture will also experience a revival, as farmers begin cultivating products in demand in the AYUSH market. This increased demand will ensure fair prices for their produce and boost their income, leading to greater prosperity. Additionally, local communities will find employment in grading, packing, and transporting these products.
