India: calls for regulation of yoga and naturopathy
The Indian AYUSH Medical Federation (IAMF) has formally urged the Government of India to create a central statutory regulatory framework for Yoga and Naturopathy education and practice, arguing that the current absence of a dedicated regulatory authority for BNYS (Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences) creates inconsistency in registration, professional recognition and public health accountability across states. IAMF leaders said BNYS is a comprehensive 5½-year medical education program and that “drugless” therapies still warrant clear legal and professional standards, including uniform curriculum oversight, central practitioner registration and ethical and disciplinary mechanisms. They proposed either a separate national commission or a statutory board under central law to provide uniform regulation and professional identity, saying such clarity is essential for academic justice, sustainable careers and the effective contribution of yoga and naturopathy to preventive healthcare.