Yogi government to introduce course in Sowa Rigpa to promote AYUSH systems

Yogi government to give a new identity to a 2,500-year-old traditional medical system

Amchi medicine to get a place alongside Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy

Varanasi to become a major centre for Sowa Rigpa, special focus on treatment of complex diseases

Lucknow, April 2026 : The Yogi government is set to take another major step to promote AYUSH systems and give them global recognition. Under the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, preparations are underway to introduce courses in the 2,500-year-old traditional medical system ‘Sowa Rigpa’ (Amchi medicine) and the Siddha system in AYUSH colleges across the state.

This initiative will not only provide a new identity to traditional medicine but will also expand the scope of healthcare services in the state.

The government aims to bring the Sowa Rigpa system into the mainstream along with Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. This initiative is expected to be particularly effective in treating diseases where complementary therapy is required alongside modern medicine, such as cancer, joint pain, mental illnesses and chronic diseases.

Principal Secretary, AYUSH, Ranjan Kumar stated, the process of starting degree courses in Sowa Rigpa and Siddha systems is progressing rapidly. Necessary standards, curriculum and infrastructure for these courses are being developed. The Yogi government has granted approval, and these courses will soon begin in selected AYUSH colleges in the state.

With the commencement of these courses, practitioners obtaining degrees will also be registered, enabling them to officially establish their treatment centres. This will expand traditional healthcare services in the state and provide patients with more alternative treatment options.

The Principal Secretary informed that a major centre for Sowa Rigpa will be developed in Varanasi. This centre will function as a hub for research, training and treatment, with a special focus on complex diseases. Varanasi has been chosen for this project as it has long been a major centre of Ayurveda and spiritual healing.

The introduction of Sowa Rigpa and Siddha courses will also create new employment opportunities for youth. Trained practitioners will be able to open clinics and extend healthcare services to rural areas. Additionally, research in these systems will be encouraged, strengthening their scientific foundation.

Sowa Rigpa is an ancient medical system practiced in Himalayan regions and is believed to have originated in Tibet. It is based on the balance between body, mind and environment. Treatment involves the use of herbs, minerals and natural elements.

This system is considered particularly useful in treating diseases such as arthritis, digestive disorders, mental stress, skin diseases and cancer.

The Siddha system of medicine is primarily practiced in South India, and steps are being taken to strengthen it within the AYUSH framework. It is based on maintaining the balance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Along with medicines, it places special emphasis on lifestyle and diet.