Bhubaneswar: Odisha is taking significant steps through its AYUSH department to make Ayurvedic healthcare more accessible in both rural and urban areas, said Chief MinisterMohan Charan Majhi. Addressing the state-level NationalAyurvedaDay 2025 celebrations, Majhi emphasised that Ayurveda should be viewed as an integral part of human life, focusing not only on curing diseases but also on prevention and overall health maintenance. Calling Ayurveda India's invaluable contribution to the world, he said, "Our goal is to presentAyurvedanot only as a medical system but also as a holistic approach for the welfare of humanity, reflecting our knowledge and philosophical perspective", news agency UNI reported. Also Read:MP to set up 12 AYUSH Hospitals, extend DACP pay scale to doctors He observed that while most people now follow modern medical systems, the side effects and high costs of modern treatment have encouraged many to explore alternative healthcare methods. Ayurveda and Yoga, Majhi noted, guide individuals toward a healthy lifestyle, maintain harmony with nature and the body, and enhance quality of life, which is why it is globally recognised as an excellent system of medicine. Health-conscious individuals consider Yoga a "way of life," he added, noting ongoing efforts to promoteAyurvedaeducation, research, and treatment in the state. On government initiatives in Ayurveda, the Chief Minister highlighted that Odisha has three government Ayurvedic colleges, four government homeopathic colleges, five government Ayurvedic hospitals, and four government homeopathic hospitals. These institutions train new doctors and provide natural treatments to patients from both within and outside the state. The Chief Minister said currently, 1,191 AYUSH dispensaries are operational, including 620 Ayurvedic, 562 homeopathic, and 9 Unani dispensaries, providing easy access to healthcare in rural and underserved areas. Under the National AYUSH Mission, three integrated AYUSH hospitals are being constructed in Dhenkanal, Brahmapur, and Baleshwar, which will expand access to high-quality healthcare services. Additionally, a new Ayurvedic college is being established at Rairangpur in Mayurbhanj district at a cost of Rs. 85 crore, as part of a joint state and central government initiative,Majhi said. The Chief Minister said a Panchakarma unit under AYUSH operates at Kendrapara District Hospital, with two more units under construction at Bargarh and Kendujhar district hospitals He further announced plans to establish eight additional Panchakarma centers this year at various district Ayurvedic offices to enhance healthcare services. During the program, Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling stated that nearly 2.3 million patients have been treated through Ayurvedic services in the state this year. Also Read:AIIA holds bike rally under the theme Ayurveda for People and Planet