Ministry of Ayush and DoSJE Join Forces to Enhance Geriatric Healthcare and Combat Substance Abuse

This strategic partnership aims to integrate Ayush-based interventions into geriatric healthcare and substance abuse prevention programs across the country.

In a significant move to improve senior citizen welfare and tackle substance abuse, 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 partnership aims to integrate Ayush-based interventions into geriatric healthcare and substance abuse prevention programs across the country.

The MoU signing ceremony was graced by prominent leaders, including Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, and Shri B.L. Verma, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Also in attendance were Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, and Sh. Amit Yadav, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, along with senior officials from both ministries.

Statements from Key Dignitaries

Shri Prataprao Jadhav highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, "Geriatric healthcare and substance abuse are critical areas that require special focus, especially as we face an ageing population and growing concerns around addiction. This collaboration represents a significant step towards addressing these challenges. By leveraging the holistic approach of Ayush systems alongside social welfare initiatives, we aim to empower our senior citizens and those affected by substance abuse."

Shri B.L. Verma emphasized the government's dedication to senior citizens' welfare, saying, "Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our government has taken several steps to ensure the welfare of our senior citizens. The MoU with the Ministry of Ayush will significantly benefit our senior citizens through elderly-specific training modules, treatment protocols, yoga programs, and preventive practices. Together, we can provide comprehensive services to the community."

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, elaborated on existing initiatives, "We have various programs addressing the challenges faced by the ageing population, such as Geriatric Healthcare Camps under the National Ayush Mission. This MoU will strengthen our efforts to provide quality healthcare to senior citizens."

Sh. Amit Yadav, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, remarked, "By partnering with Ayush, our Ministry aims to create a drug-free society using Ayush treatment models and ensuring our senior citizens lead healthy and dignified lives through targeted interventions."

Objectives and Initiatives under the MoU

This pioneering MoU aims to develop cooperative health initiatives for senior citizens and individuals affected by substance abuse. Key objectives include:

1. Cooperative Efforts: Foster cooperation, convergence, and synergy between the Ministry of Ayush and DoSJE to promote senior citizen health, reduce drug demand, address substance abuse, and support mental rehabilitation. This will be achieved through awareness programs and capacity-building for service providers using Ayush systems.

2. Research Promotion: Encourage research in geriatric health, substance abuse, and mental health, focusing on the therapeutic benefits of traditional healthcare practices.

3. Health Promotion Activities: Support additional health promotion activities tailored to the needs of the geriatric population and individuals affected by substance abuse.

4. Capacity Building: Develop training modules and treatment protocols for service providers and healthcare professionals, integrating Ayush-based preventive and curative practices.

5. Establishment of Units: Set up geriatric health and de-addiction units under Ayush autonomous bodies to provide specialized care and support.

Impact of the MoU

This MoU represents a milestone in India's healthcare journey, combining the strengths of Ayush systems and social justice initiatives to create a healthier and more inclusive society. By leveraging holistic healthcare approaches and social welfare frameworks, the partnership aims to significantly enhance the quality of life for senior citizens and individuals battling substance abuse.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Ayush and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment is a testament to the government's commitment to addressing critical healthcare challenges. This MoU not only paves the way for improved geriatric healthcare but also marks a significant step towards combating substance abuse, fostering a healthier, addiction-free society.