Ayurvedic Doctors To Perform Surgery? Andhra Policy Sparks IMA & National Debate
The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated a policy allowing postgraduate Ayurvedic doctors, trained in Shalya and Shalakya Tantra, to independently perform 58 surgical procedures. These procedures encompass 39 general surgical and 19 ENT and eye-related interventions.
The policy, cleared by Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav on 23 December, has generated a significant national debate concerning patient safety and medical training standards.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has strongly opposed the directive, contending that modern surgery necessitates extensive training in anatomy, anaesthesia, emergency care, and post-operative management, which they assert is only acquired through MBBS-MS or MCh qualifications.
The IMA has also warned against "mixopathy," defined as blending medical systems without equivalent standards, which they believe could dilute accountability and endanger patients.
Conversely, proponents argue that central regulations already recognise surgical training within Ayurvedic postgraduate courses. Dr. Prasanna Narasimha Rao, Director of SDM Institute of Ayurveda, highlighted that Shalya Tantra, a branch of Ayurveda, has historical roots in surgery dating back thousands of years. The debate continues, with related rules still pending before the Supreme Court of India.