India has the unique distinction of having seven recognized systems of
medicine which are Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy, Amichi
and Homoeopathy. These systems are better known as ISM & H (Indian
systems of Medicine and homoeopathy) or AYUSH. The unmatched heritage of
these systems is a treasure house of knowledge for both preventive and
curative health care.Despite of public faith and strengths of systems,
Indian systems of Medicine were dominated by Western Medicine during
British rule. At the dawn of twentieth century, with the assertion of
Indian nationalism, interest in Indian art and science reawakened and
Indian systems of medicine began a gradual renaissance. The most
significant step in development of ISM was formation of National Policy
on Indian systems of Medicine and Homeopathy in 2002. To assess the
achievement of stated objectives of a policy, its adequacy and
efficiency evaluation should be done. Thus, it is important to find out
how effectively the ISM&H Policy has been implemented in the period of
eight years.