Variety of degree and diploma courses in ayurveda in Rajasthan, are becoming the subjects of major interest areas for students from SAARC nations, Europe and Asia.
The Ministry of AYUSH, runs the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) in Jaipur and has received the "expression of interest" from foreign students, to study ayurveda. The Director of NIA, Mr. Shankar Rao said,"This year again, we have received a phenomenal response from foreign students. The popularity of ayurveda has been increasing. Students are making a beeline for its courses because of the vast job opportunities this stream offers." The NIA is affiliated with the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurveda University and is one amongst the four Universities dedicated to the study of ayurveda in the country.
The students here are educated regarding the ancient science of ayurveda from both, ancient as well as modern texts. The state-of-the-art labs that exist there are well equipped with the latest equipments. "Our labs have facilities for conducting bio-chemistry, haematology and microbiology and drug tests. Besides, our pharmacy production unit has all natural resources required to make medicines," said Mr. Shankar Rao. Since the past three years of establishment of AYUSH, the interest and awareness of people regarding ayurveda has seen an immense increase.
Special courses, keeping the foreigners and their interest in mind, have been introduced for study in the University.
Paul Dsouza of Italy has showed interest in applying for a diploma course in introduction to ayurveda."I am a researcher on ancient medical sciences. I have read a lot about ayurveda and found several principles of ayurveda to be true in the light recent medical findings," he told Mr. Shankar Rao through an email. The institute has been receiving applications from foreigners seeking admission and guidance for research work, daily. 50 foreign students have completed their diploma courses from the institute so far.
Interested students can apply for admission in MD as well as PhD courses through the official website www.nia.nic.in.