BIS Enhances Ayush Sector with New Standardisation Department and Key Publications

Sh. Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General of BIS, explained that the Ayush department has established seven sectional committees, each focusing on a specific Ayush system.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), India's National Standards Body, has made significant strides in the standardisation of the Ayush sector with the launch of a dedicated standardisation department. This new department aims to advance the safety, efficacy, and quality of Ayush products and practices, covering traditional Indian systems of medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa–Rigpa, and Homoeopathy.

Sh. Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General of BIS, explained that the Ayush department has established seven sectional committees, each focusing on a specific Ayush system. These committees collaborate with experts, scientific and technical institutions, industry representatives, and regulatory bodies to develop comprehensive, evidence-based standards that align with both national and international guidelines.

To date, BIS has published 91 standards addressing various aspects such as single herbs, Ayurveda and Yoga terminology, Panchakarma equipment, Yoga accessories, and test methods for pesticide residues in herbs. Among these, the publication of 80 indigenous Indian standards for herbs supports their safe and effective use, benefiting consumers and the industry. Additionally, BIS has introduced national standards for Panchakarma equipment, promoting consistency in prophylactic and therapeutic procedures and enhancing the quality of Ayush healthcare practices.

In a move towards environmental sustainability, BIS has also introduced an indigenous standard for the "Cotton Yoga Mat," which supports domestic manufacturers and farmers. Future standardisation efforts will focus on terminology, single herbs, yoga attire, Siddha diagnostics, and homoeopathic preparations.

Secretary of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, praised BIS for its initiatives, noting the increasing demand for traditional healthcare systems and the necessity for consistent quality, safety, and efficacy in Ayush products and services. He highlighted BIS's commitment to these goals through the establishment of the dedicated department and the development of crucial standards, including IS: 17873 for Cotton Yoga Mats. Kotecha emphasized that these milestones are pivotal in promoting and advancing traditional Indian medicine and enhancing its acceptance and growth both nationally and internationally.