Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy (Ism&h) Policy, 2002: Operationalization Status in India Manoj Kumar

India has the unique distinction of having seven recognized systems of medicine which are Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy, Amichi and Homoeopathy. These systems are better known as ISM & H (Indian systems of Medicine and homoeopathy) or AYUSH. The unmatched heritage of these systems is a treasure house of knowledge for both preventive and curative health care. Despite of public faith and strengths of systems, Indian systems of Medicine were dominated by Western Medicine during British rule. At the dawn of twentieth century, with the assertion of Indian nationalism, interest in Indian art and science reawakened and Indian systems of medicine began a gradual renaissance. The most significant step in development of ISM was formation of National Policy on Indian systems of Medicine and Homeopathy in 2002. To assess the achievement of stated objectives of a policy, its adequacy and efficiency evaluation should be done. Thus, it is important to find out how effectively the ISM&H Policy has been implemented in the period of eight years.