Is Kerala Establishing a ₹400 Crore International Ayurveda Research Centre in Kannur?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's International Ayurveda Research Centre is backed by a ₹400 crore investment.
- The Centre will include a 100-bed hospital and preservation spaces for ancient manuscripts.
- There is significant international interest in collaborative research.
- The state has implemented standardization measures in the AYUSH sector.
- 250 institutions have achieved NABH accreditation.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 (NationPress) The Health Minister of Kerala, Veena George, revealed on Friday that the forthcoming International Ayurveda Research Centre in Kannur is set to become a significant legacy, enhancing the global standing of this ancient medical practice while promoting research and education.
The project, with a sanctioned budget of ₹400 crore, is approaching the completion of its initial phase of construction.
This facility will feature a 100-bed hospital alongside dedicated areas for the preservation and exhibition of ancient Ayurvedic texts, palm-leaf manuscripts, biodiversity of medicinal plants, and traditional healthcare practices.
Numerous international universities have already shown interest in collaborating on research initiatives with the centre.
During the event to inaugurate the distribution of the first Kerala AYUSH Kayakalp Awards, George emphasized Kerala's substantial advancements in the AYUSH sector in recent years, which includes the implementation of standardization measures that have enhanced planning and funding distribution.
“The government's initiative to set up a homeopathy dispensary in every panchayat has been successfully executed, making Kerala the only state where every local body has access to AYUSH facilities,” she stated.
George noted that, for the first time in the state’s history, 116 new positions were created within the AYUSH sector, including 40 in the Homoeopathy Department. Kerala's global reputation as a center for traditional healthcare has been further bolstered by quality-driven initiatives.
Guidelines to ensure standards in AYUSH care were established in Kerala, becoming the first of their kind in India and later adopted at the national level.
To date, 250 AYUSH institutions in Kerala have achieved NABH accreditation.
The budget allocation for the sector has seen a tenfold increase since 2021, complemented by the launch of 10,000 yoga clubs aimed at fostering preventive healthcare.
The Kayakalp Awards, which were initiated to honor AYUSH institutions that enhance services under local supervision, emphasize hygiene, waste management, and infection control. A total of 132 institutions across Kerala were recognized for their outstanding performance.