Bhubaneswar, August 13: In a major boost to Ayurvedic healthcare in the state capital, the Odisha government has decided to upgrade the Government Ayurvedic Hospital at Nageshwar Tangi, near Bhubaneswar Court, into a 100-bed facility.

Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment project. The hospital currently has 43 inpatient beds, which will be increased to 100 to meet the growing demand for Ayurvedic treatment.

The minister said the upgraded facility will provide affordable and quality AYUSH healthcare to residents of Bhubaneswar. The government is also considering bringing Ayurvedic treatment under the Ayushman card scheme, which could enable eligible beneficiaries to access treatment without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

During the programme, Mahaling distributed fruits among patients undergoing treatment at the hospital. Ekamra MLA Babu Singh was also present at the event.

The 100-bed hospital building will be constructed by Samal Engineering and Consultant and is expected to be completed within 15 months, according to the minister.

Local residents to benefit

The upgraded hospital is expected to benefit residents of BJB Nagar, Nageshwar Tangi, Lingaraj, Saheed Nagar, Rasulgarh, Nayapalli and surrounding areas, who will have greater access to government-run Ayurvedic healthcare closer to home.

The facility will provide Ayurvedic services for various chronic health conditions, including diabetes, arthritis and digestive disorders. Free blood testing is already being provided at the hospital and is expected to continue.

Describing the project as more than just an infrastructure upgrade, the Health Minister said it represents an important step towards strengthening and promoting traditional systems of medicine in Odisha.