In a landmark move for integrative healthcare, the Andhra Pradesh government has granted qualified Ayurveda practitioners the authority to independently conduct surgical procedures. This decision marks a significant step in blending India's ancient medicinal systems with contemporary medical practices.
Government Approves Surgical Rights for Ayurveda Practitioners
The approval was formally given by State Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav on Tuesday. The policy permits Ayurveda doctors who hold postgraduate qualifications in surgical disciplines and have completed prescribed training to undertake operations. This aligns with existing national regulations, specifically the Indian Medicine Central Council Regulations, 2020, and guidelines from the National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine (NCISM).
According to a release from the health minister's office, this move formally recognizes and authorizes Ayurveda doctors with postgraduate surgical degrees to perform interventions. The decision is expected to expand surgical care access and utilize the expertise embedded in traditional systems.
List of Approved Surgical Procedures
The approved list encompasses a wide range of 58 types of surgical procedures. These are divided into two main classical branches of Ayurveda:
- 39 procedures under Shalya Tantra (General Surgery): This includes treatments for infectious conditions, removal of tissues damaged in accidents, wound management and suturing, treatment for piles and anal fissures, excision of cysts and tumours, musculoskeletal surgeries, and skin grafting.
- 19 procedures under Shalakya Tantra (ENT and Ophthalmology): This branch covers surgeries such as cataract procedures and the removal of growths in the eye, ear, nose, and throat regions.
Implementation Roadmap and Infrastructure Development
Minister Yadav held detailed discussions with State AYUSH Wing Director K Dinesh Kumar and other senior officials to chart the implementation path. Officials informed the minister that Andhra Pradesh currently has one government Ayurveda college in Vijayawada and two private Ayurveda colleges offering various courses.
To ensure high standards, the minister issued immediate directives. He ordered the introduction of postgraduate courses in Shalya and Shalakya Tantra at the Dr NRS Government Ayurveda College in Vijayawada. Furthermore, he instructed officials to establish adequately equipped operation theatres and provide all necessary surgical instruments to maintain rigorous academic and clinical standards.
Yadav emphasized that this initiative will enable practitioners trained in the 2,500-year-old traditions of Shalya and Shalakya to fully utilize their expertise. He stated that the policy will play a key role in bridging Indian systems of medicine with modern medical practices, creating a more holistic healthcare framework for the state.
