The Andhra Pradesh government has announced a major initiative to strengthen the AYUSH sector, aiming to transform the state into one of India's leading centres for traditional medicine and holistic healthcare. The move is part of a broader strategy to promote Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, and Naturopathy while improving healthcare infrastructure across the state.

 

As part of this initiative, the government will invest ₹414 crore in developing AYUSH infrastructure. Four new AYUSH medical colleges will be established with an investment of ₹280 crore, allocating ₹70 crore to each institution. Two Ayurveda colleges will be set up in Dharmavaram and Pithapuram, a Unani Medical College will be established in Proddatur, and a Naturopathy Medical College in Visakhapatnam is nearing completion.

In addition, the state will invest ₹90 crore to establish integrated AYUSH hospitals in Tirupati, Giddalur, Nandigama, Tenali, Tekkali, and Rampachodavaram. More than 1,500 AYUSH dispensaries across Andhra Pradesh are also being modernised at a cost of ₹44 crore, ensuring improved access to traditional healthcare services for residents.

Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav said the government is shifting its healthcare approach from treating illnesses to promoting preventive, predictive, and wellness-based healthcare. He highlighted that strengthening AYUSH services will encourage healthier lifestyles, increase the use of medicinal plants, and create new opportunities in medical education, research, and employment.

The government also plans to expand the cultivation of medicinal plants across the state through better coordination with the Forest Department, advanced testing laboratories, and stronger market linkages for farmers. These initiatives are expected to boost rural livelihoods while supporting the growing demand for herbal and traditional medicines.

With these investments, Andhra Pradesh aims to become a national leader in AYUSH education, research, and healthcare delivery, reinforcing India's vision of integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems.