World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka moves to modernise six-decade-old traditional medicine law
Authorities are pursuing amendments to the Ayurvedha Act of 1961 to strengthen regulation and development of Sri Lanka's indigenous medical sector. The overhaul aims to address gaps in oversight of Ayurvedha, Siddha, Unani, and local therapeutic practices.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka's traditional medicine sector is set for regulatory reform as government officials move forward with amendments to the Ayurvedha Act No. 31 of 1961, the foundational legislation governing indigenous healing practices on the island.
The Act currently provides the legal framework for regulating, developing and controlling Ayurvedha, Siddha, Unani and local therapy systems. While periodic amendments have been introduced to accommodate changing circumstances, authorities have identified the need for more comprehensive legislative updates to address contemporary challenges.
The proposed amendments seek to modernise oversight mechanisms and strengthen professional standards across the traditional medicine sector, which remains an integral component of Sri Lanka's healthcare landscape. The reforms are expected to enhance registration requirements, quality assurance protocols, and practitioner qualifications.
Further details regarding the scope and timeline of the legislative amendments are anticipated as government agencies continue developing proposals for parliamentary consideration.
Photo: Ruins of an ancient hospital at Mihintale, Sri Lanka, a site linked to the island's traditional medicine. Sanjeewa Padmal Punchihewa via Wikimedia Commons (public domain).