The Centre has proposed expanding Ayush outpatient departments (OPDs) and treatment services to Military and Field Hospitals across India, a move that could reshape healthcare for thousands of soldiers by combining conventional medicine with evidence-based traditional therapies.

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, urging the Ministry of Defence to establish Ayush facilities in all Military and Field Hospitals. The proposal aims to improve preventive healthcare, rehabilitation and overall well-being for Armed Forces personnel serving in demanding operational conditions.

In his communication, Jadhav acknowledged the strong modern medical system run by the Armed Forces Medical Services but said integrating India's traditional systems of medicine could strengthen preventive and holistic care. He noted that although some Defence institutions already offer Ayush services, many Military and Field Hospitals still do not.

"Expanding Ayush facilities across these hospitals would provide soldiers with greater access to evidence-based traditional healthcare, particularly in the areas of preventive healthcare, lifestyle management, rehabilitation and overall well-being," the minister wrote.

Preventive healthcare focuses on keeping people healthy before illness develops, while rehabilitation helps patients regain strength and function after injuries or disease. These areas are especially relevant for soldiers recovering from physical strain, musculoskeletal injuries or prolonged deployment in difficult environments.

Research has shown that some Ayush-linked practices, particularly yoga, can improve flexibility, balance, chronic pain and stress when used alongside standard medical care. The World Health Organization has also encouraged countries to evaluate traditional medicine through scientific research and integrate proven practices into national health systems. However, experts continue to stress that such integration should rely on robust clinical evidence and should complement—not replace—modern medical treatment.

Jadhav said the inclusion of Ayush services would support "a more comprehensive and patient-centric model of care" for defence personnel while promoting India's traditional medical heritage. He also informed the Defence Ministry that the Ministry of Ayush is ready to provide technical support, professional guidance and institutional cooperation, including signing a Memorandum of Understanding to help implement the initiative.

If accepted, the proposal could mark another step in India's broader effort to build an evidence-based integrative healthcare system, extending traditional healthcare options to soldiers while preserving the central role of modern medicine.