In a major boost to traditional medicine, the Central Government has approved the establishment of an Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital in Jharkhand. Health Minister Irfan Ansari announced this development following his meeting with Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Pratap Rao Jadhav, in New Delhi on Thursday.
Ansari highlighted that Jharkhand lacked a dedicated Ayurvedic medical college until now. The approval paves the way for both a government-run and a private Ayurvedic institution, complete with hospitals, under the central scheme. This move is expected to integrate ancient healing practices with modern healthcare infrastructure in the state.
The discussions extended beyond Ayurveda. Key proposals to strengthen Jharkhand’s health sector received in-principle approval from the Centre. These include setting up state-of-the-art high-tech labs equipped with Japanese technology in all medical colleges and Ranchi Sadar Hospital. Such facilities will enhance diagnostic capabilities, reducing the need for patients to travel outside the state for advanced tests.
Further expansions are on the horizon. Medical colleges like SNMCH in Dhanbad and MGM in Jamshedpur will see their MBBS seats increase from 100 to 250, alongside more PG seats. A central expert team will inspect sites to fast-track these upgrades.
Wellness Health Centres, or Health Cottages, will soon dot every district, funded 60:40 by the Centre and state. The Abua Health Scheme also gained momentum with directives for central support. The Union Minister praised Jharkhand’s health model and promised a visit soon. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar, attended the meeting.
This comprehensive package signals a new era for Jharkhand’s healthcare, blending tradition with cutting-edge advancements to serve millions effectively.