Seeking to position Chhattisgarh as a leading centre for Ayurveda education, research and specialised healthcare, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has requested the Central Government to establish an All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in the state.
The proposal was presented during a meeting with Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah in New Delhi. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma also attended the meeting, where several development proposals for the state were discussed.
State Highlights Potential for Ayurveda and Medicinal Research
Presenting the state’s case, Chief Minister Sai pointed to the success of the existing All India Institutes of Ayurveda in New Delhi and Goa, stating that these institutions have become centres of excellence by integrating traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern medical science. He noted that the institutes have significantly contributed to quality healthcare, medical education and research.
Sai emphasised that Chhattisgarh has immense potential for the growth of Ayurveda due to its vast forest cover, rich biodiversity and abundance of medicinal plants. He also highlighted the traditional healing practices preserved by tribal communities, describing them as valuable resources for future academic research and innovation.
AIIA Could Boost Healthcare, Education and Employment
According to the Chief Minister, establishing an AIIA in Chhattisgarh would provide advanced Ayurvedic healthcare services while creating new opportunities for higher education, specialised research and skill development. He said the institute could serve the healthcare needs of the entire central Indian region by attracting patients, students and researchers from neighbouring states.
Sai further stated that the proposed institute would generate employment, strengthen specialised medical education and contribute to the state’s knowledge-based economy.
Request Linked to Union Budget Announcement
Referring to the Union Budget announcement regarding the establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda across the country, the Chief Minister urged the Centre to allocate one of the proposed institutes to Chhattisgarh. He maintained that the state’s natural resources, biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge make it a strong candidate for the prestigious institution.
Centre Assures Continued Support
The meeting also covered infrastructure development and welfare initiatives in remote and security-sensitive regions, including Bastar. Union Minister Amit Shah appreciated the development initiatives undertaken by the Chhattisgarh government and assured continued support from the Centre for the state’s welfare and overall growth.
