Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Prashanti Kutiram in Bengaluru, highlighting the significant economic impact of India's traditional medicine and wellness sectors. The PM noted that exports of AYUSH and herbal products from India are continuously increasing, with the economy associated with the AYUSH sector having grown to several lakh crore rupees.
Turmeric exports have seen particularly remarkable growth, reaching quantities that were once beyond imagination, leading to the establishment of the National Turmeric Board to give new impetus to production, quality, and exports. The government has implemented several initiatives to support this growth, including creating the e-Ayush Visa facility to make it easier for people from abroad to come to India for treatment, and establishing the World Health Organization's Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar to promote research and international cooperation.
Yoga has been recognized as a competitive sport in India, with new opportunities created in events such as Khelo India and the National Games. The PM also referenced a World Bank report stating that nearly 50 crore Indians have been lifted out of extreme poverty over the past 12-13 years, creating new opportunities for healthier lifestyles and increased attention to family health.