India’s pioneering efforts in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with traditional Ayush medicine systems have received significant international recognition in a new technical brief released by the World Health Organization (WHO). Titled “Mapping the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Traditional Medicine,” the brief acknowledges India’s groundbreaking work, noting it as the first country to launch a Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) and highlighting the Ayush sector’s substantial contribution to India’s economy, valued at US$43.4 billion. This press release was issued on July 12, 2025.
The WHO publication follows a proposal from India, leading to the development of WHO’s first-ever roadmap for applying AI in traditional medicine. Prime Minister Modi, at the 2023 Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit, emphasized an “AI for all” approach aimed at leveraging AI for social development and inclusive growth.
The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush remarked that this recognition by WHO underscores India’s profound commitment to advancing traditional medicine through cutting-edge technology. “By integrating AI with Ayush systems—and through pioneering digital platforms such as the SAHI portal, NAMASTE portal, and the Ayush Research Portal—India is not only safeguarding its centuries-old medical wisdom but also leading the way in shaping a future of personalised, evidence-based, and globally accessible healthcare,” he stated.
The Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, highlighted several AI-driven innovations praised by the WHO document. These include predictive diagnostics utilizing Prakriti-based machine learning models and the groundbreaking Ayurgenomics project, which merges Ayurveda knowledge with modern genomics. These initiatives are built upon the Ayush Grid, a comprehensive digital health platform launched in 2018, serving as the foundation for various citizen-centric platforms.
The WHO brief specifically showcases a range of AI-driven applications across Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Sowa Rigpa, and Homoeopathy:
Diagnosis Support Systems
Integration of traditional diagnostic methods like pulse reading, tongue examination, and Prakriti assessment with machine learning algorithms and deep neural networks to enhance accuracy and enable personalized preventive care.
Ayurgenomics
A scientific breakthrough combining genomics with Ayurvedic principles, utilizing AI-based analysis to identify predictive disease markers and personalize health recommendations based on Ayurvedic constitution types. Efforts to decode the genomic and molecular basis of herbal formulations for repurposing in modern disease conditions are also highlighted.
Digitization of Traditional Knowledge
India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) is lauded as a global model for preserving and responsibly using indigenous medical heritage. AI-powered tools are employed for cataloguing and semantic analysis of ancient texts, facilitating easier access to therapeutic knowledge.
Drug Action Pathway Identification
AI is being used for comparative studies across different traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, TCM, Unani) and for developing artificial chemical sensors to assess traditional parameters such as Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), and Virya (potency).
Broader Digital Integration
WHO also applauds India’s initiatives in promoting online consultations, enhancing digital literacy among Ayush practitioners, and building interoperable systems to integrate traditional medicine with mainstream healthcare.