Ayurved has been a part of the Indian Health Care system since time immemorial. Most of the drugs developed from this system are known to exist since an equal period of time. Though the tradition observed by an Ayurvedic physician of preparing his own medicines continues, the organised manufacturing of Ayurvedic medicines has started right from the beginning of this century. There are many 75-125 years old names known not only in India but the world over. However, for one reason or the other, the Ayurvedic industry has not yet been able to establish its own independent image as an organised sector. Several attempts in the past have been made mainly at regional level and sometimes at national level, but with limited success.
Ayurved as a system and Ayurvedic products for several therapeutic uses are becoming more and more popular with increasing demand the world over. The liberalisation and industrialisation are equally affecting the manufacturers. In view of this changing situation it is necessary that the manufacturers of Ayurvedic products come together to share their experiences, understand the world requirements and evolve the right kind of strategies. It will also be appropriate to understand the issues arising out of the global situation, whether it be related with resources, quality control, manufacturing processes, marketing and other relevant factors.
It has been observed that there exists a big communication gap between the manufacturers and the consumers. There is urgent need to fill this gap to keep up with the race in a global economy if Ayurvedic manufacturers have to play their vital role in the world market of health care. So far, the issues related with Ayurvedic manufacturers were mainly limited to their industry which itself is undergoing a major change. It is, therefore, necessary that the manufacturers of Ayurvedic products also understand the requirements of the profession and evolve ways and means so as to promote the Ayurvedic products both at national and international levels.
