Women account for 43% of India’s Ayush services workforce, with their representation exceeding 50% in several organised segments, according to a government-backed report released in October 2026.
The Ayush Services Sector Report, prepared by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), estimates that the sector supports approximately 1.76 million livelihoods across healthcare, wellness, education and allied services.
The report covers six traditional systems: Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy. It highlights the growing role of women in healthcare delivery, wellness services and educational institutions.
Women’s representation is highest in spas and wellness resorts, where it exceeds 60%. They account for 58% of the workforce in educational institutions, 57% in day-care centres and 53% in hospitals.
The findings point to the sector’s role in creating employment opportunities for women across different types of establishments. More than one million livelihoods are concentrated in local and standalone clinics, reflecting the sector’s reach across urban and rural areas.
The report also estimates that India’s Ayush services economy was worth US$36.92 billion in the 2024-25 financial year. It recorded a compound annual growth rate of 16.91% between 2022-23 and 2024-25.
Standalone clinics were the largest revenue-generating segment, contributing an estimated US$16.21 billion, while day-care centres generated US$10.13 billion.
The findings underline the sector’s employment potential and the importance of skill development, quality standards and stronger institutional support. Expanding opportunities across healthcare, education and wellness could further support women’s workforce participation and economic inclusion.

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