On August 1, 2025, the Ministry of AYUSH informed the Lok Sabha that the Government has reviewed and welcomed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) technical brief titled “Mapping the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Traditional Medicine”, released on July 11, 2025. The brief outlines global trends, opportunities, and ethical challenges surrounding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and others.
The Ministry of AYUSH played an active role in shaping the brief by contributing to global consultations as a topic driver under the WHO–ITU Focus Group on AI for Health (FG-AI4H). The brief highlights AI’s transformative potential in diagnostics, treatment protocols, and research while emphasizing the importance of ethical safeguards, data privacy, and regulatory frameworks.
Responding to Parliament, the Ministry said that the WHO brief will serve as a guiding framework for India to:
- Establish ethical AI guidelines within AYUSH;
- Develop standardized AI diagnostic protocols;
- Formulate regulatory mechanisms for AI deployment, and
- Encourage AI-led research in traditional medicine.
As part of its AI integration strategy, the Government has initiated steps like Ayush Grid, a digital ecosystem for the sector, and capacity-building programs to align research and practice with global best practices.
Additionally, the Government continues to promote AYUSH through national IEC campaigns, research councils, and schemes like AOGUSY, aimed at upgrading manufacturing, export capabilities, and quality standards. The Pharmacopoeia Commission also plays a key role in setting drug standards for traditional medicines to ensure safety and efficacy.