New Delhi: In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance senior citizen healthcare and address substance abuse challenges, the Ministry of Ayush and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in New Delhi today. This strategic collaboration aims to integrate Ayush-based interventions into social welfare programs, promoting holistic well-being for the elderly and those affected by addiction.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, B.L. Verma. Also present were Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Amit Yadav, Secretary, DoSJE, and other senior officials.
Speaking at the event, Prataprao Jadhav highlighted the urgent need for targeted healthcare and rehabilitation efforts. “Geriatric healthcare and substance abuse require special attention as we face an ageing population and rising addiction cases. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing these issues through Ayush systems, ensuring better care and rehabilitation,” he stated.
B.L. Verma emphasized the government’s commitment to senior citizens’ welfare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “This MoU will benefit our senior citizens immensely. By developing elderly-specific treatment protocols, yoga training programs, and curative healthcare practices, we can ensure that they lead a healthier and more dignified life. Working with the Ministry of Ayush allows us to provide comprehensive services to both senior citizens and those battling substance abuse,” he remarked.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, outlined the ministry’s existing geriatric care initiatives, including Geriatric Healthcare Camps under the National Ayush Mission. He expressed confidence that the MoU would strengthen these efforts and improve healthcare access for senior citizens.
Amit Yadav, Secretary, DoSJE, underscored the importance of integrating Ayush-based therapies into de-addiction programs. “By adopting Ayush treatment models, we aim to make India free from drug addiction while also ensuring that our senior citizens receive holistic healthcare interventions,” he noted.
The MoU will facilitate joint efforts between the two ministries in key areas such as awareness programs, capacity-building for service providers, and the establishment of geriatric health and de-addiction units under Ayush autonomous bodies.
Key Objectives of the MoU:
- Strengthening Healthcare for Senior Citizens: Developing initiatives to promote elderly well-being through traditional Ayush practices, including yoga, Ayurveda, and naturopathy.
- Combating Substance Abuse: Implementing awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs to reduce drug dependency, with a focus on Ayush-based detoxification and mental health support.
- Research and Innovation: Encouraging studies on geriatric health, addiction treatment, and the therapeutic benefits of traditional medicine.
- Capacity Building: Training service providers and caregivers to implement Ayush-based healthcare solutions effectively.
This partnership marks a major step in India’s efforts to integrate traditional healthcare systems into mainstream social welfare initiatives. By combining Ayush methodologies with social justice interventions, the government aims to create a healthier, more inclusive society that prioritizes both preventive healthcare and rehabilitation.