Cash-starved State is optimistic of an increased length of stay by medical tourists

Kochi, June 29 With monsoons in full spate and Karakata (mid-July to mid-August) season considered to be the most propitious for Ayurveda upon us, Kerala’s centuries-old traditional healing sector is gearing up to grab a bigger pie of medical tourism this year, riding on twin factors. One, the recent announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Ayush visas, and second, the uncertainties plaguing Sri Lanka, a big competitor when it comes to Ayurveda.

Vignesh Devaraj, CEO of Sitaram Beach Retreat, told BusinessLine that German travel insurance firms have issued warnings against availing treatments in Sri Lanka due to the crisis in the nation. He said the Centre’s move for Ayush visas could also be a revenue booster to cash-starved Kerala, considering the increased stay of tourists for health packages ranging from 14 to 21 days.