AYUSH
Established in February 2017, the Department of AYUSH at AIIMS Rishikesh was envisioned as a pioneering initiative to bring together the best of Eastern and Western medical systems. Since its inception, the department has steadily expanded its clinical services, research capabilities, and educational initiatives, with a firm commitment to advancing integrative and holistic healthcare.Dedicated to the convergence of India’s time-tested traditional medicine systems—Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—with modern scientific medicine, the department offers a unique platform for patient care, research, and academic training. Over the years, it has grown into a vital component of AIIMS Rishikesh’s healthcare framework, promoting evidence-based AYUSH practices and interdisciplinary collaboration.
In a major milestone, the Department of Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh was formally inaugurated on 15th April 2025 by Shri J.P. Nadda, Hon’ble Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, and Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, Hon’ble State Health Minister, in the esteemed presence of Prof. Meenu Singh, Director, AIIMS Rishikesh. This inauguration marked a historic step toward establishing a comprehensive and inclusive healthcare model that seamlessly integrates AYUSH systems with modern medicine.
AIIMS Rishikesh is the first institute in the country to establish a fully functional AYUSH Department, offering a wide range of traditional therapies and setting a benchmark for integrative healthcare in India. It is also the first among all AIIMS institutions to incorporate a dedicated Department of Integrative Medicine into both routine OPD and IPD services, facilitating collaborative, patient-centric treatment strategies.The Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh embodies the vision of blending India’s traditional systems of medicine with modern healthcare for holistic, patient-centered outcomes. The department houses fully functional units of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Siddha Medicine, each offering clinical services, academic training, and research opportunities. These units work in synergy with modern medical departments to deliver integrative and evidence-based care to patients from Uttarakhand and neighbouring regions.
Further strengthening its research foundation, the department houses an Advanced Centre for Research in Yoga and Ayurveda, supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), to foster rigorous scientific inquiry and generate robust clinical evidence on traditional healing modalities. Serving a diverse patient population from across Uttarakhand and neighbouring states, the Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh continues to play a transformative role in shaping the future of holistic, integrative, and evidence-driven healthcare in India. At the Department of AYUSH, AIIMS Rishikesh, we are committed to advancing a global evidence-based platform for integrative medicine. By harmonizing the wisdom of traditional healing systems with modern scientific research, our mission is to establish credible, patient-cantered practices that elevate healthcare standards worldwide. In alignment with this vision, the unit has planned structured Fellowship Programs in Integrative Medicine, designed to train healthcare professionals in evidence-informed approaches that blend Indian Healing systems and conventional medicine. These courses will not only strengthen clinical expertise but also foster innovation, research and collaborative leadership positioning AIIMS Rishikesh as a national and international hub for integrative healthcare education.
Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh
The Department of AYUSH – Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh is committed to blending the wisdom of traditional healing systems with the rigor of modern medical science. Our work spans clinical care, advanced research, and teaching, ensuring holistic health solutions for patients while fostering innovation and education.
Clinical Services
- Patient Consultations: Available every Wednesday and Friday, offering personalized integrative care.
- Physician Discussions: Collaborative case reviews where integrative physicians and specialists jointly plan patient-centered treatment strategies.
Research Initiatives
- AYUSH–ICMR Advanced Center for Integrative Health Research (AI-ACHIR): Focused on geriatric health, this center pioneers evidence-based approaches to healthy aging.
- Center for Advanced Research Lab: Equipped for cutting-edge studies, biomarker analysis, and translational research in integrative therapies.
Teaching & Training
- OPD Patient Discussions: Case-based learning for medical trainees in real-world settings.
- Post-Doctoral Certificate Course: Advanced academic training in integrative medicine for scholars and practitioners.
- Nursing Sessions: Specialized workshops to empower nurses with integrative practices that enhance patient care.
Vision of the Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine, AIIMS Rishikesh
- To establish a model center of excellence for integrative healthcare in India.
- To position and popularize AYUSH systems as the primary, preferred approach for a healthy lifestyle and disease management.
- To establish a patient-centered integrative care model grounded in the principles and practices of AYUSH.
- To generate scientific evidence by combining ancient wisdom with cutting-edge modern technology.
- To provide high-quality education and training in integrative medicine for students, researchers, and healthcare professionals.
- To serve as a national resource center for policy development and capacity building in the integration of AYUSH with modern medicine.
- To improve public health outcomes through preventive, promotive, therapeutic, and rejuvenative approaches rooted in traditional knowledge.
- To contribute to global recognition and scientific validation of India’s traditional healthcare systems through rigorous research and innovation.
At AIIMS Rishikesh, Integrative Medicine is not just a discipline—it is a bridge between tradition and conventional medicine, offering patients safe, supervised, and evidence-based care while nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders.
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Faculty:
| Name & Qualification | Designation | Area of Interest | Email ID | Research gate page | ORCID ID | |
Dr. Monika Pathania MD(Internal Medicine) DFID Fellowship in Diabetes, CMC Vellore, Diploma in Indian Society of Lifestyle Medicine, Board-certified lifestyle medicine physician AYUSH certified 200 hr yoga instructor. Cert course in Integrative Medicine, NIMHANS | HoD AYUSH Additional Professor, Dept. of Medicine, | Integrative medicine, Lifestyle diseases- hypertension, Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, mind body medicine, Physician Burnout & wellbeing, Rural Health. Holistic health through AYUSH. | monika.med@aiimsrishikesh.edu.in | https://www.researchgate.net//profile /Monika_Pathania/info | https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3609-1162 | |
Dr. Sriloy Mohanty,BNYS, M.Sc. PhD Â
| Senior Medical Officer (AYUSH) | Integrative Medicine, Naturopathy &Yoga, Clinical trials, rehabilitation medicine. | sriloy.smo.ayush@aiimsrishikesh.edu.in
| https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sriloy-Mohanty | https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6981-9178 | |
Dr.Shweta Mishra,BNYS,Msc Yoga, PGDMT, PGDQMHHO
| Medical Officer (Yoga & Naturopathy) | Yoga therapy, Clinical Naturopathy, lifestyle medicine, Clinical Research, Integrative medicine | shweta.ayush@aiimsrishikesh.edu.in
| https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shweta-Mishra-18?ev=hdr_xprf | https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9579-440X
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Dr.Rahul Katkar, BAMS, MD, PhD scholar | Medical Officer (Ayurveda) | Integrative Medicine, Evidence-Based Practice, Clinical Panchakarma, Clinical Research, Lifestyle Interventions, Medicinal Plants | rahul.moa@aiimsrishikesh.edu.in | https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rahul-Katkar-2 | https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1575-7201 | |
Dr.P.Mirunaleni, BSMS, MD | Medical Officer (Siddha) | Integrative medicine, Clinical Research, Siddha External therapies, Siddha Varmam therapy, Siddha Ahar, lifestyle. | pmirunaleni.mos@aiimsrishikesh.edu | https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mirunaleni-Vivek-2 | https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4790-3527 |
SERVICES:
OPD Clinics: (Monday to Saturday:9:00 am -1:00 pm )
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| AYUSH Clinic | Consulting Doctor |
| Yoga & Naturopathy | Dr. Sriloy MohantyDr. Shweta Mishra |
| Ayurveda | Dr. Rahul Katkar |
| Siddha | Dr. P. Mirunaleni |

Special Collaborative Clinics:
| Collaborative Special Clinics | Consulting Doctor | Day & time |
| Paediatric Pulmonology-Bronchial Asthma clinic | Prof. Meenu Singh, Dr. Shweta Mishra | Wednesday (2:00 pm-5:00 pm) |
| Professional burn-out & well-being clinic | Dr. Monika Pathania, Dr.Sriloy Mohanty | Monday (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) |
| Integrative Medicine Clinic | Dr. Monika Pathania, Dr. Sriloy Mohanty, Dr. Shweta Mishra, Dr. Rahul Katkar, Dr. P. Mirunaleni | Wednesday, Friday (9:00 am- 2:00 pm) |
| Sleep and Mental Health Clinic for Elderly | Dr. Monika Pathania | Tuesday (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) |
| Lifestyle Disease Clinic | Dr. Monika Pathania | Thursday, (2:00 pm – 4:00 pm) |
At AIIMS Rishikesh, the AYUSH facilities bring together the classical wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, and Siddha Medicine to provide holistic, evidence-based care rooted in India’s ancient healing traditions. The Ayurveda unit follows the principles of Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and individualized protocols based on Prakriti (body constitution), offering Panchakarma detoxification, classical formulations, and lifestyle counselling for chronic and lifestyle-related disorders. The Yoga & Naturopathy facility works on the profound principles of the Panchamahabhuta theory (five elements), the Panchakosha model of the Taittiriya Upanishad (five sheaths of human existence), the balance of Sattvik, Rajasik, and Tamasik gunas, and the philosophy of unity of disease and unity of cure, emphasizing the healing principles of nature. It provides condition-specific therapies for non-communicable diseases, rehabilitation, stress management, and wellness modules, integrating Yoga into inpatient and outpatient care while promoting natural healing through diet, hydrotherapy, mud therapy, and lifestyle modification. The Siddha facility revives the South Indian system of medicine, focusing on balancing the Mukkutram (three humours) and Pancha Bhootha (five elements) through Herbo-mineral formulations, Kaya Kalpa rejuvenation, and preventive health strategies.
Together, these disciplines form a vibrant ecosystem of clinical care, collaborative research, and structured teaching, offering patients diverse, personalized options for chronic and lifestyle-related diseases while nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals in integrative medicine.
Ayurveda – Core Focus Areas
- Individualized treatment based on Prakriti (body constitution) and Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
- Panchakarma therapy for detoxification, rejuvenation, and preventive health.
- Use of classical Ayurvedic medicines and formulations for chronic and lifestyle-related disorders.
- Dietary and lifestyle counselling rooted in Ayurvedic principles.
- Management of arthritis, metabolic disorders, skin diseases, and other chronic conditions.
- Collaborative care with neurology, general medicine, orthopedics, and allied specialties.
- Promotion of holistic wellness and resilience through traditional therapies.
Yoga & Naturopathy – Core Focus Areas
- Guided by Panchamahabhuta theory (five elements), Panchakosha model (five sheaths – Taittiriya Upanishad), and balance of Sattva, Rajas, Tamas.
- emphasizing the healing principles of nature.
- Condition-specific Yoga & Naturopathy therapy for NCDs and lifestyle disorders (hypertension, diabetes, stroke, anxiety, fibromyalgia, musculoskeletal pain).
- Lifestyle and Dietary, lifestyle  counselling, Yog Vimarsh sessions.
- One-on-one and group therapy sessions led by qualified Yoga experts.
- Integration of Yoga in inpatient and outpatient care.
- Wellness modules tailored to promote well-being and stress management.
- Clinical research on Yoga & Naturopathy in disease prevention, rehabilitation and holistic management.
- Naturopathy therapies: Diet and fasting therapy, hydrotherapy, mud therapy, massage, herbal remedies, lifestyle counselling.
- Active role in chronic disease care, improving quality of life and functional outcomes.
Siddha Medicine – Core Focus Areas
- Reviving the South Indian system of medicine based on Mukkutram (three humours) and Pancha Bhootha (five elements).
- Use of traditional herbo-mineral formulations for chronic and degenerative conditions.
- Management of skin diseases, joint disorders, respiratory and digestive ailments.
- Kaya Kalpa therapy for rejuvenation, longevity, and anti-aging.
- Dietary guidelines and preventive health strategies for long-term wellness.
- Integration of Siddha principles into holistic patient care and collaborative research.
At AIIMS, Rishikesh, the AYUSH Department stands as one integrated entity with one vision—bringing together the strengths of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy and Siddha Medicine to deliver comprehensive well-being. Rooted in India’s healing traditions yet guided by modern scientific rigor, strengthened by principles of Integrative medicine the department harmonizes diverse therapies into cohesive approach that heals, rejuvenates, and empowers lives. By fostering patient-centered care, evidence-based research and collaborative protocols, AYUSH at AIIMS Rishikesh exemplifies the strength of unity—where tradition and science converge to create a holistic model of health for residents, patients, and the wider community.
Integrated AYUSH Therapies
| Unit | Therapies | |
| Ayurveda | Pancha Karma (Bio-Cleansing) | Vamana, Virechana, Basti (Niruha, Anuvasana), Nasya, Jaluka Avcharana |
| Bahya Karma (External Therapies) | Udvartana, Abhyanga, Bashpa Swedana, Patra pinda swedana, Shashtika shali pinda swedana Kati/Janu/Griva/Prishthavansha Basti, Shirodhara, Shiropichu, Dhumapana, Gandusha, Lepa | |
| Yoga & Naturopathy | Yoga therapy | Clinical yoga therapy tailored for specific ailments Trataka , Meditation, Yognidra, relaxation techniques Shatkriyas |
| Hydrotherapy
| Steam Bath, Local Steam/Compress, Foot/Arm/Hip/spinal Baths, full immersion bath, Cold/Hot Packs, Mud Pack, Mustard Pack, GH Pack, Poultice, steam bath, local steam | |
| Hands on therapies | Aroma therapy, manipulative therapy | |
| Acupressure and reflexology | Hand and foot reflexology | |
| Siddha | External Therapies | Varmam, Thokkanam, Thuvalai, Podi Thimiral, Pugai, Chuttigai, Vedhu, Patru, Ottradam & Kizhi, Nasiyam, Seelai |
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Outreach activities:
Targeted Community Outreach Initiatives:Â
The Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh actively conducts outreach health camps in Rishikesh, Haridwar, Roorkee and nearby areas. These camps are designed to provide inclusive and accessible healthcare services tailored to the specific needs of different population subgroups, including the elderly, women, and children.
The camps focus on health issues such as joint disorders, cognitive decline, insomnia, non-communicable and chronic lifestyle diseases. AYUSH-based consultations are provided alongside therapeutic Yoga sessions to promote mobility, balance, and mental well-being. For women, particularly those in reproductive and post-menopausal age groups, the camps offer support for conditions such as menstrual disorders, hormonal imbalances, stress and bone health through AYISH interventions. Special emphasis is placed on women’s wellness, reproductive health, and mental resilience.
AYUSH interventions for children are thoughtfully designed to support overall health and well-being from an early age. These programs aim to strengthen immunity, manage behavioural concerns, enhance concentration and promote balanced physical and mental growth. Playful yoga practices make sessions engaging and enjoyable, encouraging children to adopt healthy habits with ease. By blending traditional wisdom with modern understanding, AYUSH empowers children to grow into healthier, more focused, and confident individuals. Simple Yoga routines, diet counselling, and herbal support are introduced as preventive and restorative  tools.
Each Health camp includes:
AYUSH consultations (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Siddha)
Age- and condition-specific Yoga therapy sessions
Health education, dietary modifications  and lifestyle counselling
Distribution of awareness material on holistic health and self-care
Preventive screenings and basic health assessments
These targeted initiatives aim to promote preventive healthcare, self-care practices, and lifestyle-based disease management, bringing the benefits of integrative medicine to all segments of society. Through these inclusive efforts, the department seeks to create a health-aware community empowered by traditional wisdom and modern understanding.
Telemedicine OPD Services:
To enhance accessibility and continuity of care, the Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh offers Telemedicine OPD services. This initiative enables patients to receive expert AYUSH consultations from the comfort of their homes, promoting convenient and timely healthcare; especially for those in remote or underserved areas. The service supports follow-up consultations, lifestyle guidance and chronic disease management.
Y-Break: Workplace Wellness through Yoga To promote health, well-being, and productivity among staff, the Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh conducts Y-Break (Yoga Break) sessions and Yognidra sessions for the employees. These brief yet effective sessions are designed to help reduce stress, enhance concentration and keep the body active during work hours. By incorporating simple stretches, breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques, Y-Break fosters a healthy and positive work environment, encouraging a culture of wellness and self-care within the workplace.
Facilities:
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Facilities:
Mahrishi Patanjali Yoga and Meditation Studio:
The Mahrishi Patanjali Yoga Studio, a dedicated space promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being through guided yoga sessions. Located within the Department of AYUSH at AIIMS Rishikesh, this Yoga Hall symbolizes a significant step forward in integrating traditional wellness practices into modern healthcare. Named after the revered sage Maharishi Patanjali, the father of classical yoga.
The AYUSH Integrated Wellness Path:
The AYUSH Integrated Wellness Path at AIIMS Rishikesh is an innovative, astronomically aligned AYUSH medical path that blends India’s ancient wisdom of health and wellness with cosmic and environmental harmony. Concept based on traditional systems like Ayurveda, yoga and  Siddha the park is designed to reflect the intricate connections between human health, natural elements and celestial forces.
Key features of the park include:
- Navagraha Vana: A celestial garden representing (the nine planetary influences) Navagraha, with each medicinal plant carefully selected and placed according to Vedic astrology. This sacred layout supports cosmic healing and individualized wellness based on planetary energies.
- Rashi Vana (Zodiac Garden): This garden features plants corresponding to the twelve zodiac signs, arranged to embody the qualities and vibrational energies of each Rashi. Visitors can explore this area to reflect on their own astrological constitution and its relation to health and well-being.
- Panchatatwa Sensory Walkway: The Panchatatwa Sensory Walkway is a unique pathway designed to help individuals reconnect with the five great elements of nature Prithvi (Earth), Aap (Water), Teja (Fire), Vayu (Air), and Akash (Space) through a rich multi-sensory experience. The trail engages touch, smell, sight, sound and spatial awareness with diverse natural features such as pebbles, sand, wood, grass underfoot. The flowing water channels, soothing aromas, ambient sounds and open sky viewing zones enhance the impact. This immersive journey not only grounds the senses and calms the mind but also restores inner balance by harmonizing the body with nature. Additionally, the textured surfaces provide a gentle acupressure effect, reflexly stimulating points in the feet to enhance overall well-being.
Infinity Path: A tranquil meditative walking trail shaped as an infinity loop, symbolizing continuity, balance, and the eternal connection between the self and the universe. It encourages mindful walking and supports emotional clarity and mental relaxation.
These astronomically designed AYUSH medical path serves as a living embodiment of cosmic health architecture, where the ancient sciences of healing meet ecological design. It offers a unique space for preventive care, spiritual reflection and natural restoration, accessible to patients, staff and the broader community alike.
The Herbal Garden at AYUSH, AIIMS Rishikesh– A Living Source of Traditional Healing at AIIMS Rishikesh
The Herbal Garden at AIIMS Rishikesh, curated by the Department of AYUSH, is more than a serene green space it is a living pharmacy and a centre for experiential learning. Designed to serve both educational and therapeutic purposes, the garden hosts a diverse collection of medicinal plants, with a special emphasis on species native to Uttarakhand, celebrating the rich herbal heritage of the Himalayan region. The Herbal Garden at AIIMS Rishikesh is a living repository of medicinal plants, nurtured to support daily therapies at the AYUSH Treatment Centre. With a diverse collection of herbs traditionally recommended for patients, the garden serves as both a therapeutic resource and an educational space. These herbs are used in various form internally as infusions and decoctions and as an external application as infusions, decoctions providing interventions that complement integrative healthcare. These are also used in procedures such as Therapeutic oil massages (Abhyanga), herbal poultices (Kizhi), application of herbal pastes/ packs (lepam) and steam therapies, enhancing the natural healing and wellness among patients. By cultivating and showcasing plants of daily clinical relevance, the garden underscores AIIMS Rishikesh’s commitment to holistic healing, patient safety and the preservation of India’s rich medicinal heritage advancing the role of herbal therapies in preventive and integrative healthcare.
Sushrut Gyan Setu – AYUSH Library and Teleconsultation Services, inaugurated by Shri Pratap Rao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, stands as a vital academic resource, housing enriched collections of standard reference works on Yoga, Ayurveda, Siddha, and Naturopathy, alongside classical Indian literature and spiritual texts of cultural significance. This initiative not only supports our faculty, students and researchers but also strengthens the department’s academic depth and integrative outlook, fostering holistic growth in AYUSH systems.
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Academic Activities
Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine, AIIMS Rishikesh
The Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh is actively involved in academic initiatives aimed at bridging traditional knowledge systems with modern medical education. The department caters to a wide spectrum of learners, including undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD scholars, and super-specialty trainees. Key academic activities include:
Case Discussion Series
Regular interactive sessions focused on clinical case reviews are conducted to enhance diagnostic reasoning and integrative treatment planning skills. These discussions encourage collaborative learning and the application of AYUSH principles alongside modern medical approaches.
Weekly Journal Club for PhD Scholars
Designed to fostercritical thinking and scientific analysis, the Journal Club provides a platform for research scholars to review, present, and discuss the latest studies in AYUSH and integrative medicine, encouraging evidence-based academic discourse.
Integrative AYUSH Classes for MBBS and Nursing Students
Curriculum-based sessions introduce students to thecore concepts of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Siddha, with a focus on their relevance in clinical practice. These classes aim to build awareness and respect for India’s traditional healing systems among future healthcare professionals.
Theory Sessions for Optometry Students
Specialized lectures highlight the role of AYUSH systems (particularly Ayurveda and Yoga) in visual health, eye strain reduction and overall ocular wellness, offering holistic perspectives in eye care education.
Classes for Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) in Lifestyle Disease Management
Advanced academic sessions focus on integrative approaches to preventing and managing lifestyle-related disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and stress induced conditions. These sessions combine theory with practical insights from Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy. Through these diverse academic offerings, the department is building a strong foundation for interdisciplinary learning and integrative healthcare education, aligned with national health priorities and global wellness trends.
Events
AYUSH Days Celebrations:
AYUSH Department commemorates important AYUSH days each year to promote awareness, preserve ancient healing systems, and integrate traditional medicine into modern healthcare. These events include health talks, awareness camps, and an Exhibition of Medicinal Herbs, AYUSH Diet (Aahar), and Wellness Practices.
National Ayurveda Day: Celebrated to promote the preventive, holistic principles of Ayurvedic medicine.
National Siddha Day: is celebrated on the Ayilyam star in the Tamil month of Margazhi, commemorating the birth of Siddhar Agathiyar, the father of Siddha medicine. This day honors the ancient Siddha tradition and its contributions to holistic healing and preventive healthcare.
National Naturopathy Day: is observed on November 18th each year. The day promotes awareness of natural, drugless systems of healing for holistic health
International Day of Yoga 2025 Celebration at AIIMS Rishikesh:Â
The International Day of Yoga (IDY) is celebrated globally on June 21st each year, following its official declaration by the United Nations in 2014 to recognize the universal value of Yoga in promoting holistic health and well-being. AIIMS Rishikesh marked the 2025 International Day of Yoga with great enthusiasm and participation through a comprehensive 12-day program, reflecting its strong commitment to integrative and preventive healthcare.
This year’s celebrations included a series of targeted Yoga workshops designed for various subgroups within the institution—faculty members, students, resident doctors, administrative staff, and security personnel—each tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of these groups. The sessions emphasized the role of Yoga in stress management, improving concentration, physical fitness, and workplace well-being.
The mass yoga demonstration, held on June 21st, was the highlight of the celebrations, with an impressive participation of over 650 individuals, including students, faculty, staff, and healthcare workers. The event was honoured by the esteemed presence of Prof. Meenu Singh, Director, AIIMS Rishikesh, along with the Dean Academics, Medical Superintendent, and other dignitaries.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, the program was graced by Shri Phool Charan Prasad, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, who applauded the institute’s efforts in promoting the message of Yoga for health, harmony, and resilience.
The celebrations reaffirmed AIIMS Rishikesh’s role as a leading centre for integrative medicine and community health promotion, successfully bridging traditional wisdom with modern institutional outreach.
Future Expansion Plan of AYUSH:
The Department of AYUSH at AIIMS Rishikesh is charting a transformative path for the future, envisioning itself as a global hub for integrative medicine. A state-of-the-art 50-bedded IPD facility is planned to deliver advanced inpatient care rooted in AYUSH systems.
a research and academic platform will be established to generate robust evidence, nurture innovation, and train the next generation of healthcare professionals. Tele-AYUSH services will be expanded to ensure equitable access to holistic care across remote and underserved regions, bridging geographical barriers.
Strategic national and international collaborations will be strengthened to foster knowledge exchange, joint research, and global recognition of AYUSH. Together, these initiatives will position Bharat as a torchbearer of holistic healthcare, setting new benchmarks in patient care, education, and research for the world to follow.
Research Projects:
| EXTRAMURAL Funded Projects | |||||||
| Sl. No. | Title | Principal Investigator (Department) | Site Investigator / CO- PI | Approved Year | Type of Project | Funded By | Status |
| 1 | ASHIRWAD - Ayurveda for Sarcopenia & Holistic-health: Integrative Research on Wellness for Age-related Debility | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | - | 2024 | Extramural | ICMR, India | Ongoing |
| 2 | Efficacy of mHealth aided 12-week Rhythmic-Yoga-Breathing Intervention on change in Burnout and Professional Quality of Life among Health Care Providers at a Tertiary Care Hospital during COVID-19 pandemic: A Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial. | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | - | 2020 | Extramural | DST SATYAM, India | Completed |
| 3 | Short term effects of audible mantra sound repetition on heart rate variability and cognitive function | Dr Venugopal Damerla | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | 2021 | Extramural | PRIIME, Colorado USA | Completed |
| 4 | Effectiveness of Kabasura Kudineer in Management of Asymptomatic, ltilO to Moderate Cases of COVID-l9: An Open Label, Single Blind, Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
| Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | 2020 | Extramural | SST & SSIAR, Bengaluru | Completed | |
| 5 | A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Multi-centric, Trial to Determine the Therapeutic Efficacy of Ayush Medicine NoQ 19 in Treatment of Symptomatic COVID-19 Patients along with Standard Allopathic Treatment | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | - | 2020 | Extramural | SSAIR Bengaluru, India | Completed |
| INTRAMURAL Funded Projects | |||||||
| 1 | Efficacy of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) based 12 weeks online breath and meditation workshop on change in Burnout and Ballistocardiography (BCG) assessments among medical professionals at a tertiary care hospital during COVID-19 pandemic: A single Arm Trial. | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | Â | 2020 | Intramural | AIIMS Rishikesh | Completed |
| 2 | Effect of Yoga on Pelvic Floor Distress and Quality of Life among Elderly Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial | Dr. Shweta Mishra AYUSH | Dr. Monika Pathania, HOD AYUSH, Dr. Sriloy Mohanty S.M.O. AYUSH | 2025 | Intramural | AIIMS Rishikesh | ongoing |
| 3 | Development & Validation of a Battery of Yoga Modules for Managing Lifestyle Diseases among Geriatric Population | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | 2023 | Intramural | AIIMS Rishikesh | Completed | |
| 4 | Effect of Yoga Intervention Compared to Active Control on Muscle Health in Older Adults with Sarcopenia: A Randomized Controlled Trial | Dr. Monika Pathania General Medicine | 2023 | Intramural | AIIMS Rishikesh | Ongoing | |
- 14 MD Thesis Projects with AYUSH as interventions with standard of care in collaboration with different departments of the institute.
- 07 PHD Thesis Projects with AYUSH as interventions with standard of care in collaboration with different departments of the institute.
News letter
Ganga Pravah serves as the official e-newsletter for the Department of AYUSH at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh. It acts as a vibrant platform to highlight the academic, clinical, research, and outreach endeavours of the Department, while facilitating the evidence-based integration of Yoga, Ayurveda, Siddha and Naturopathy within modern healthcare systems.
The newsletter embodies the Department's dedication to excellence in education, patient services, and interdisciplinary research, aligned with the national goal of integrative medicine. Through its regular editions, Ganga Pravah showcases research progress, announces academic events and workshops, promotes public health initiatives, and details significant advances in the AYUSH. Named after the sacred river Ganga that flows through Rishikesh, Ganga Pravah symbolizes continuity, knowledge dissemination, and holistic well-being. The e-newsletter aims to connect academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and the wider community, fostering dialogue and collaboration in the evolving landscape of integrative healthcare
NEWS LETTER :Â Â Â GANGA PRAVAH 01





























