PANAJI
The Goa government has issued a notification creating a new independent Department of AYUSH under the General Administration Department.
The department will oversee the National AYUSH Mission, hospitals, wellness centres, yoga, naturopathy, panchakarma, education, research and medical wellness tourism.
Officials said the move is aimed at giving traditional systems of medicine greater administrative focus and visibility.
Until now, AYUSH activities were managed within the Directorate of Health Services. The new department will coordinate with national bodies, regulate institutions and expand access to AYUSH services in the State.
The announcement coincided with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s birthday. Sawant, an Ayurvedic practitioner, has been a vocal supporter of integrating traditional medicine into public health. Government sources said the decision reflects growing demand for alternative medicine and wellness tourism in Goa.
The department is expected to strengthen AYUSH hospitals and promote research initiatives.
