Rajasthan Assembly Approves New Ayurveda University in Ajmer
The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has taken a significant step in the field of traditional medicine education by passing the Rajasthan Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy University Ajmer Bill, 2026. The bill was approved by voice vote on Monday, officially paving the way for the establishment of a new state university in Ajmer.
Speaker Celebrates Historic Achievement
Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani expressed his enthusiasm during the session, highlighting that this marks Ajmer's second state university after a gap of 38 years. "The establishment of this university fulfilled my dream," Devnani stated, emphasizing the long-awaited development for the region's educational infrastructure.
Debate Over University Naming and Scope
The legislative debate saw several members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) proposing alternative names for the institution. RLD MLA Subhash Garg, Independent MLA Ravindra Bhati, and Congress MLA Rafeek Khan all suggested renaming it as Ayush University to better reflect its broader scope in traditional Indian medicine systems.
Garg further elaborated on his vision, stating that while promoting Ayurveda is commendable, the government should consider establishing Ayush universities at the divisional level across Rajasthan to ensure wider accessibility and impact.
Congress Raises Concerns Over Sustainability
State Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra raised critical questions regarding the university's long-term viability. He argued that the institution might struggle to sustain itself due to insufficient financial resources outlined in the bill. "The Bill does not specifically talk about granting autonomy to the university. When the university does not get funds at its own level, how will it develop?" Dotasra questioned.
He also pointed to the existing Jodhpur Ayurveda University, questioning the necessity of a new university in Ajmer when the former is already performing well. Dotasra expressed concerns about increased gubernatorial powers in university appointments and warned that the new institution could become a commercial center dominated by industrialists rather than an academic hub.
Government Defends the Initiative
In response, Deputy Chief Minister and Higher Education Minister Prem Chand Bairwa defended the bill, asserting that the university aligns with the state's broader health and prosperity goals. "The university will help achieve the goal of 'Swasthya Rajasthan se Samriddh Rajasthan' (Healthy Rajasthan to Prosperous Rajasthan)," Bairwa stated.
He reminded the assembly that the announcement for this university was initially made in the 2024-25 state budget, indicating it as a planned priority for the government's educational and health initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The passage of this bill sets the stage for Ajmer to enhance its educational landscape with a focus on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy. As the university moves toward establishment, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how it addresses the raised concerns while contributing to Rajasthan's traditional medicine sector and overall development.
