Kerala is expanding its Ayush healthcare ecosystem with central assistance of over ₹285 crore in the last four years, alongside the operationalisation of 700 Ayush wellness centres, strengthening its position as a key hub for traditional medicine and wellness services.
Data presented in Parliament shows that funding under the National Ayush Mission (NAM) to Kerala has risen steadily, peaking at ₹110.37 crore in 2024–25, before moderating to ₹51.38 crore in 2025–26. The total allocation between 2022–23 and 2025–26 stands at ₹285.65 crore.
Expanding Wellness Infrastructure
A major component of the expansion is the upgrade of 700 dispensaries into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. All centres are now operational, delivering integrated healthcare services that include Ayurveda, Yoga, and other Ayush systems.
This large-scale rollout strengthens Kerala’s already established reputation in Ayurveda and wellness tourism, while also expanding access to preventive and primary healthcare at the community level.
Healthcare Meets Wellness Economy
Kerala’s push comes at a time when demand for alternative medicine and preventive healthcare is rising, both domestically and globally. The state is well-positioned to leverage this trend, given its strong base in Ayurveda, trained practitioners, and established wellness infrastructure.
The integration of Ayush services into public healthcare through these centres also signals a shift toward cost-effective, preventive care models, which can reduce long-term healthcare expenditure.
Boost to Medical Value Travel
The promotion of Medical Value Travel (MVT) is emerging as a key economic driver. The Ministry of Ayush recently held a South Zone MVT Summit in Chennai, with participation from Kerala and other southern states, aimed at positioning India as a global destination for traditional medicine and wellness therapies.
Kerala, in particular, stands to benefit due to its global brand recognition in Ayurveda-based treatments and wellness retreats.
Policy and Funding Trends
While public health remains a state subject, central funding through NAM continues to play a catalytic role in infrastructure development and capacity expansion. The funding pattern indicates both strong central support and the state’s active participation through State Annual Action Plans.
Opportunities and Challenges
The expansion opens up opportunities across multiple segments, including wellness tourism, herbal product markets, training institutions, and tele-health services.
However, scaling up services while maintaining quality, standardisation, and global credibility will be critical, especially as Kerala targets international patients under medical value travel initiatives.
Outlook
With a combination of public investment, infrastructure expansion, and global demand for wellness services, Kerala is positioning itself at the intersection of healthcare and tourism.
If supported by quality assurance and international outreach, the state’s Ayush ecosystem could evolve into a significant contributor to both public health outcomes and the regional economy.
