Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 (IANS) — Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Friday announced that the state’s International Ayurveda Research Centre coming up in Kannur will be a “contribution for generations,” enhancing the global standing of Ayurveda while driving advanced research and education.
The ₹400-crore project is nearing completion of its first phase, which includes a 100-bed hospital and facilities to preserve and showcase centuries-old manuscripts, palm-leaf texts, medicinal plant biodiversity, and traditional treatment practices. Several global universities have already expressed interest in research collaborations with the centre.
Speaking at the inauguration of the first Kerala AYUSH Kayakalp Awards, George underlined Kerala’s recent strides in the AYUSH sector. She noted that the government’s policy of establishing a homoeopathy dispensary in every panchayat has been fully implemented, making Kerala the only state where all local bodies are equipped with AYUSH services.
For the first time, 116 new posts have been created in the sector, including 40 in the Homoeopathy Department. The state also pioneered AYUSH care guidelines that were later adopted nationally, while 250 institutions have secured NABH accreditation.
Budget allocation for AYUSH has grown tenfold since 2021, and over 10,000 yoga clubs have been launched to promote preventive healthcare.
The Kayakalp Awards, designed to recognise AYUSH institutions under local body supervision, highlight achievements in hygiene, waste management, and infection control. This year, 132 institutions across Kerala were honoured for exemplary service.
