Integrating Modern and Traditional Medicine: A Case for the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery Dual Degree Programme in India

Abstract The recent announcement of an undergraduate dual degree program that combines the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) signifies an advancement in Indian medical education. Although this idea has historical origins, attempts to implement it have often been obstructed by professional apprehensions, particularly concerns such as ‘mixopathy’ and even quackery. Nevertheless, the increasing burden of lifestyle-related diseases and the necessity for comprehensive, evidence-based primary health care present a justification for such an integration. This article is a policy analysis and perspective piece; it does not present original research data but critically examines the rationale, potential benefits, implementation challenges and regulatory considerations of the proposed MBBS–BAMS dual-degree programme. This article examines the reasoning, advantages, issues and counterarguments related to the suggested programme, referencing both historical and international examples, particularly the effective model of integrated medicine in China.