1. Introduction to Ayush Licence

India has a rich and diverse tradition of healthcare that extends far beyond modern medicine. Systems like Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—collectively known as AYUSH—have been practiced for centuries. Rooted in holistic wellness, these practices emphasize balance in the body, natural healing, and disease prevention.

With rising global interest in natural and alternative medicine, India’s AYUSH sector is gaining recognition and commercial potential—not just domestically, but across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Today, thousands of companies manufacture herbal medicines, Ayurvedic oils, wellness supplements, Unani formulations, and homeopathic remedies, contributing significantly to India’s healthcare economy.

But with this growth comes a responsibility: ensuring quality, safety, and standardization. That’s where the Ayush licence comes in.

What is an Ayush Licence?

An Ayush licence is a regulatory approval required for anyone who wants to manufacture, market, distribute, or export AYUSH-based products in India. Whether you’re a full-scale manufacturer, a brand owner, or a small-scale wellness entrepreneur—this licence is mandatory to operate legally in the Indian herbal and traditional medicine market.

Licences are issued under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, specifically under provisions applicable to Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathic medicines. They are enforced by State Licensing Authorities (SLAs) under the guidance of the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.

Why is the Licence Necessary?

As AYUSH products grow in popularity, so does the risk of unregulated and substandard formulations entering the market. To safeguard public health and ensure the credibility of the traditional medicine industry, the government requires businesses to meet certain infrastructure, technical, and product quality standards.

Without a licence:

• Your business may be deemed illegal
   
• You may not be able to list products on platforms like Amazon or 1mg
   
• Export opportunities will be closed off
   
• Your products won’t be eligible for government health schemes or tenders
   

Who Issues It?

Licences are granted by State AYUSH Drug Licensing Authorities, typically under the Department of AYUSH or Health in your respective state. Each state has slightly different guidelines, processing systems, and timelines, though they all follow central policy directives.

There are also central bodies like:

• Pharmacopoeial Laboratory for Indian Medicine (PLIM)
   
• Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia Laboratory (HPL)
   
• National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)
  
  These provide scientific and technical support for standardization and research but do not directly issue licences.
   

The Rise of the AYUSH Market

In recent years, India has launched large-scale campaigns to promote AYUSH systems. Initiatives like the National AYUSH Mission, Make in India, and Startup India have made it easier for entrepreneurs to enter the wellness space.

According to the Ministry of AYUSH, the Indian AYUSH sector was valued at over USD 18 billion in 2022, with strong double-digit growth projected through 2025. This makes it an opportune time for businesses to engage with the space—provided they meet the necessary regulatory requirements.

2. Types of Ayush Licences in India

India’s Ayush regulatory system accommodates a wide variety of business models—from full-scale manufacturing plants to startups outsourcing production to third-party units. Because of this diversity, the government offers several types of Ayush licences. Choosing the correct one depends on your business model, operational setup, and product line.

Here are the major licence categories explained in detail:

1. 

Ayush Manufacturing Licence

This is for businesses that intend to manufacture Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, or Homeopathic medicines on their own premises. You must have a fully operational manufacturing unit with proper infrastructure, machinery, and qualified technical staff.

Manufacturing licences are further divided into:

• Classical Drugs: Based on formulations mentioned in authoritative Ayurvedic/Unani/Siddha texts (like Charaka Samhita or Unani Pharmacopoeia)
   
• Proprietary Drugs: Unique products formulated using ingredients approved under the AYUSH pharmacopoeia but not mentioned in classical texts
   

If you want to create a custom wellness product—like an immunity booster syrup or herbal cough tablet—you’ll likely fall into the proprietary category.

2. 

Loan Licence

This licence is ideal for entrepreneurs or brands that don’t own a factory. Under a loan licence, you can legally manufacture your products at a third-party facility that already holds a manufacturing licence.

The manufacturer is responsible for:

• Quality control
   
• Batch records
   
• Manufacturing processes
   

But your brand and marketing team can focus on formulation ideas, packaging, and sales. The final products will carry both your branding and the manufacturer’s licence number.

3. 

Third-Party Manufacturing or Contract Manufacturing Licence

This is a popular model for startups and non-technical founders. You collaborate with an already licensed manufacturer who produces your herbal or wellness products as per your specifications.

You don’t need to hold a manufacturing or loan licence yourself, but you must:

• Sign a manufacturing agreement
   
• Approve product composition and packaging
   
• Ensure the manufacturer meets GMP norms
   

This model is ideal for businesses focused on marketing, branding, and distribution rather than production.

4. 

Wholesale Licence for AYUSH Products

This licence is required if you plan to:

• Sell AYUSH products in bulk
   
• Supply to retailers, hospitals, or other wholesalers
   
• Operate as a distributor for Ayurvedic or herbal brands
   

Your premises must meet specific storage standards, and you may need a pharmacist or trained staff.

5. 

Retail Licence for AYUSH Products

If you want to sell AYUSH medicines directly to consumers, whether through:

• A physical store
   
• An online platform
   
• Telemedicine service
   

… you’ll need a retail licence. This is mandatory for standalone ayurvedic stores or general chemists that also sell herbal and Unani formulations.

6. 

Additional Certifications (Optional but Beneficial)

In addition to basic licensing, some manufacturers opt for:

• GMP Certificate (mandatory for manufacturing)
   
• WHO-GMP Certification (for export)
   
• COPP (Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product)
   
• Free Sale Certificate (required in many export destinations)
   

These aren’t types of licences, but they enhance product credibility and market access.

3. Who Needs an Ayush Licence?

The AYUSH licence is not limited to large pharma companies. Any individual, startup, or entity that manufactures, markets, stores, or sells Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha, or Homeopathic medicines needs to obtain a relevant Ayush licence from their State Drug Licensing Authority.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of who needs it:

a. 

Manufacturers

Anyone setting up a unit to produce AYUSH products like:

• Tablets, capsules, syrups, oils, ointments, churna, or gels
   
• Proprietary wellness blends or traditional formulations
   
• External-use products like balms, pain oils, and sprays
   

Whether you produce classical (textbook) or proprietary formulations, a manufacturing or loan licence is required.

b. 

Brand Owners or Founders Using Third-Party Manufacturing

If you’re launching a brand but outsourcing production to a licensed manufacturer, you need a loan licence or a contract manufacturing agreement. You will not get your own manufacturing licence, but your brand must still comply with labelling and product registration regulations.

c. 

Wholesalers and Distributors

If you plan to act as a distributor or wholesaler, supplying AYUSH products to pharmacies, retailers, hospitals, or eCommerce sellers, you need a wholesale licence. This applies whether you carry your own brand or distribute products from others.

d. 

Retailers and Shopkeepers

Pharmacies, wellness stores, and herbal remedy shops that sell AYUSH products directly to customers need a retail licence. This includes both standalone ayurvedic stores and general chemists who stock such products.

e. 

Exporters

If you export AYUSH medicines, supplements, or formulations outside India, you must obtain:

• A valid Ayush manufacturing/loan licence
   
• Product-wise export permission
   
• Additional certificates such as Free Sale Certificate, GMP, or COPP depending on the country
   

f. 

Online Sellers and Aggregators

Startups and entrepreneurs selling AYUSH products through websites or platforms like Amazon, 1mg, Flipkart, or Etsy also require:

• A valid retail or wholesale licence
   
• Clear product labels with licence number
   
• Manufacturer and ingredient transparency
   

Even practicing vaidyas or hakims offering their own formulations to a large customer base should consider getting licensed, especially if they sell packaged products.

In short, if your business involves AYUSH products at any stage of the supply chain, you are expected to comply with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act via the appropriate Ayush licence.

4. Eligibility Criteria for Getting an Ayush Licence

 

The eligibility requirements for an Ayush licence vary depending on:

• The type of licence (manufacturing, loan, retail, etc.)
   
• The system of medicine (Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, or Homeopathy)
   
• The state in which you’re applying
   

Below are general eligibility norms that apply across most states:

a. 

Premises and Infrastructure Requirements

• Minimum 1200–1500 sq. ft. space for a basic manufacturing unit
   
• Segregated areas for production, storage, packaging, and quality control
   
• Adequate ventilation, lighting, hygiene systems, and drainage
   
• Proper shelving and cold storage (for temperature-sensitive ingredients)
   

For contract or third-party applicants, infrastructure must meet GMP standards.

b. 

Qualified Technical Staff

You must employ at least one full-time technical person with:

• A degree in Ayurveda (BAMS), Unani (BUMS), Siddha, or Homeopathy (BHMS)
   
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in manufacturing of relevant AYUSH system drugs
   

Support staff may include lab technicians, QA/QC officers, and pharmacists depending on the scale

c. 

Machinery and Equipment

Depending on the dosage forms manufactured, equipment may include:

• Pulverizer, blender, tablet press, capsule filler
   
• Coating pan, granulator, oil distillation unit
   
• Sealing machine, labeling machine, blister packing unit
   
• RO water system or water distillation setup
   
• Fire extinguisher and pest control system
   

All machinery should be in working condition and installed before inspection.

d. 

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Compliance

GMP under Schedule T of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act is mandatory for manufacturing units. You must:

• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and workspace
   
• Keep batch-wise production and QC records
   
• Provide training to staff
   
• Conduct self-inspections regularly
   

e. 

Ownership or Registration Status

The applying business must be a legally registered entity:

• Proprietorship
   
• Partnership
   
• LLP
   
• Pvt. Ltd. or Public Limited Company
   

Business registration and PAN details are required at the time of licence application.

f. 

State-Specific Guidelines

While the core rules remain the same, each state has minor variations. For example:

• Maharashtra has online-only submissions
   
• Kerala requires wastewater treatment details
   
• Gujarat may require environmental clearance for certain processes
   

It’s best to check with your State Licensing Authority (SLA) before applying.

5. Documents Required for Ayush Licence Application

Proper documentation is key to ensuring your application gets accepted without delay. Here’s a checklist of documents you typically need:

a. 

Core Documents (Mandatory for All)

• Duly filled Form 24D / 25D depending on the medicine system
   
• Cover letter on company letterhead
   
• PAN card and firm/company registration certificate
   
• Site plan showing layout of production, QC, and storage areas
   
• Proof of premises ownership or a registered rent/lease agreement
   
• List of equipment and machinery with specifications
   

b. 

Staff Documentation

• Appointment letter and joining report of technical person
   
• Copies of degrees (BAMS/BUMS/BHMS)
   
• Experience certificate in drug manufacturing (where applicable)
   
• ID proof and photographs
   

c. 

GMP & Compliance Records

• Self-declaration of GMP compliance
   
• Batch manufacturing records template
   
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
   
• Cleaning and sanitation protocols
   
• Waste disposal methods
   

d. 

Product-Specific Documents

• List of products to be manufactured or marketed
   
• Composition details with classical reference (for classical drugs)
   
• Product label samples showing:
   
  • Product name
     
  • Ingredients
     
  • Batch no.
     
  • Manufacturing date and expiry
     
  • Licence number
     
  • Usage instructions and warnings (if any)
     

e. 

Legal Affidavits and Undertakings

• Affidavit stating non-engagement in allopathic drug manufacturing
   
• Declaration of site ownership and staff commitment
   
• No objection certificate (if operating in a rented space in an industrial area)

f. 

Photographs

• Premises photos (inside and outside)
   
• Machinery photos with nameplate
   
• Staff photos at the site (optional but preferred)
   

Tips for Smooth Processing

• Ensure all documents are signed and sealed correctly
   
• Submit scanned copies in clear PDF format (if applying online)
   
• Keep original documents handy for inspection day
   
• Double-check the product compositions for banned ingredients
   

6. Step-by-Step Ayush Licence Application Process

Applying for an Ayush licence involves a formal and structured process governed by your State Drug Licensing Authority (SDLA). Although each state has its own platform and timeline, the broad steps are common nationwide.

Here is the complete step-by-step process:

Step 1: Business Registration and Premises Setup

Before applying for a licence, your business must be legally registered:

• As a proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or private limited company
   
• With proper GST registration and PAN card
   

You also need a dedicated premises that meets the area, layout, and GMP requirements, and must be ready for inspection.

Step 2: Identify Your Licence Type

Decide whether you need a:

• Manufacturing licence (Form 24D or 25D)
   
• Loan licence
   
• Wholesale or retail licence
   
• Third-party manufacturing support (no application directly to authority)
   

This choice will determine the forms, documents, and process flow.

Step 3: Document Preparation

Gather all the necessary documents (see Section 5). Ensure:

• Product formulas are in classical texts or are proprietary with legal backing
   
• All staff documents and agreements are in place
   
• GMP compliance forms and SOPs are prepared
   
• Product labels follow the AYUSH norms
   

Step 4: Online Portal Registration

Visit the official website of your state’s AYUSH department or Drug Licensing portal. States like:

• Maharashtra: fda.maharashtra.gov.in
   
• Delhi: health.delhigovt.nic.in
   
• Gujarat: fdca.gujarat.gov.in
  
  have dedicated licensing platforms.
   

Register your business as an applicant and create login credentials.

Step 5: Application Form Submission

• Log in and fill out the application form online
   
• Upload digital copies of the required documents in PDF format
   
• Cross-check information and save the application for future edits
   

Step 6: Fee Payment

Pay the non-refundable licence fees online. Charges vary based on:

• Type of licence
   
• Number of products listed
   
• State-wise fee structure
   

A confirmation receipt will be generated after successful payment.

Step 7: Premises Inspection

An officer from the State Drug Licensing Authority will visit your manufacturing or storage site to:

• Verify documents
   
• Inspect infrastructure
   
• Confirm staff availability
   
• Check for GMP readiness
   

Make sure all equipment is installed and labelled.

Step 8: Approval and Licence Grant

If the inspection report is satisfactory and no discrepancies are found:

• The licence is granted within 30 to 90 days (depends on state)
   
• A hard copy or digital certificate is issued with your unique licence number
   
• You are legally allowed to manufacture or market AYUSH products
   

Step 9: Product Registration (Optional/Additional)

If you want to add new products later, you must apply for:

• Product approval under your existing licence
   
• Additional labels and formulations must be validated
   

7. Cost & Timeline for Ayush Licence

The cost of obtaining an Ayush licence in India depends on several factors:

• Type of licence (manufacturing, wholesale, retail, loan)
   
• State-specific application fees
   
• Number of formulations/products
   
• Whether you use external consultants or do it in-house
   

Here’s a general cost breakdown for 2025:

Government Fees

These are fixed by each state AYUSH authority:

Licence Type	Government Fee (Approx.)
Manufacturing	₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Loan Licence	₹7,000 – ₹15,000
Wholesale/Retail	₹5,000 – ₹10,000

Fees for adding new products or renewing the licence may apply separately.

Consultancy and Legal Documentation

• If you hire a regulatory consultant, expect to pay ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 depending on complexity
   
• Drafting legal affidavits, rent agreements, or technical staff contracts may cost an additional ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
   

GMP Setup Costs

For manufacturers, preparing for a GMP inspection can involve:

• Purchasing or upgrading equipment
   
• Setting up sanitation systems
   
• Documentation and compliance templates
   

This can range from ₹20,000 – ₹1,00,000 depending on facility size.

Total Cost Estimate (for a startup)

Expense Category	Approximate Cost
Government Fees	₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Documentation & Affidavits	₹5,000 – ₹10,000
Consultant (optional)	₹10,000 – ₹30,000
Premises Setup (GMP)	₹30,000 – ₹1,00,000+
Total	₹50,000 – ₹1,65,000

 

Timelines

Process Stage	Time Required
Online Application	1–2 days
Document Verification	7–15 days
Premises Inspection	10–30 days
Licence Issuance	30–90 days (varies)

Faster approvals are possible if documents are perfect and inspection is successful on the first try.

8. Common Reasons for Ayush Licence Rejection

Getting your application rejected can set your project back by months. Many businesses face this due to avoidable errors.

Here are the most common causes of rejection:

a. 

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

• Missing site plan or rent agreement
   
• Poor-quality scanned files
   
• Technical person’s documents not verified or incomplete
   
• Affidavits not on stamp paper or not notarized
   

b. 

Unqualified or Absent Technical Staff

• Full-time qualified technical staff is mandatory
   
• If staff is on paper but absent during inspection, the licence is denied
   
• Many states require BAMS/BHMS degrees with documented work history
   

c. 

Premises Not Meeting Minimum Requirements

• Area less than the required 1200 sq. ft.
   
• Shared premises with other businesses
   
• Improper layout or unhygienic surroundings
   
• No space for quality control or raw material storage
   

d. 

GMP Non-Compliance

• Absence of SOPs or cleaning protocols
   
• No batch manufacturing record templates
   
• No proper pest control or sanitation plan
   
• Equipment not installed at the time of inspection
   

e. 

Invalid or Risky Product Claims

• Using terms like “cures cancer” or “eliminates diabetes” on labels
   
• Proprietary products that lack scientific or classical basis
   
• Using banned herbs or ingredients
   

f. 

Label or Packaging Issues

• Missing licence number or batch information
   
• Improper font size for warnings
   
• Misleading brand names or exaggerated health claims
   

g. 

Improper Fee Payment or Portal Errors

• Wrong licence type selected on the portal
   
• Non-payment of product-wise fees
   
• Application saved but not submitted
   

How to Avoid These Pitfalls

• Consult with your local drug inspector before applying
   
• Use a checklist or work with an experienced documentation consultant
   
• Conduct a self-inspection using Schedule T guidelines
   
• Review successful applications or case studies (many states publish model templates)
   

9. Post-Licensing Requirements & Compliance

Obtaining your Ayush licence is only the first milestone. After the licence is issued, your business is expected to maintain ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements. Failure to do so can result in penalties, suspension, or even cancellation of your licence.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key post-licensing responsibilities:

a. 

Batch Manufacturing Records

You are required to maintain detailed batch manufacturing records (BMR) for every product manufactured. These records must include:

• Batch number, date of manufacture and expiry
   
• Raw materials used with quantities
   
• Testing results and quality checks
   
• Staff responsible for each process stage
   
• Packaging and dispatch records
   

These records must be available for inspection at all times.

b. 

Quality Control and Lab Testing

Every batch must be subject to in-house or third-party lab testing before release. QC procedures must include:

• Testing raw materials for identity and purity
   
• Stability and shelf-life testing for finished goods
   
• Retention of sample for each batch for at least 6 months
   

c. 

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Enforcement

You must maintain compliance with Schedule T (GMP guidelines) post-licence. This includes:

• Cleanliness of floors, surfaces, and equipment
   
• Use of clean uniforms, gloves, and caps by staff
   
• Regular pest control and waste disposal
   
• Calibration of machines and maintenance logs
   
• Scheduled staff training on hygiene and SOPs
   

Failure to uphold these standards can lead to a stop-production order.

d. 

Labelling Compliance

All product labels must mention:

• Product name
   
• Dosage and usage instructions
   
• Composition (with classical reference if applicable)
   
• Batch number, Mfg/Exp date, Net quantity
   
• MRP, storage instructions, and caution note
   
• Ayush licence number
   

No health claims should be made unless legally approved.

e. 

Staff and Infrastructure Updates

If you change premises or replace your technical person, you must:

• Inform the licensing authority
   
• Submit an application for amendment
   
• Attach updated documents (rent agreement, staff degree, etc.)
   

f. 

Annual Reporting and Renewal

You must apply for licence renewal at least 90 days before expiry (generally every 5 years). Along with the renewal form, you may need to submit:

• Updated staff list
   
• Proof of continued GMP compliance
   
• Sales or production reports (if required by the state)
   

g. 

Unannounced Inspections

The Ayush Drug Control Department can conduct surprise inspections. If non-compliance is observed, you may face:

• Show-cause notice
   
• Seizure of stock
   
• Suspension or cancellation of the licence
   

10. Selling and Exporting Products with Ayush Licence

With a valid Ayush licence, your business becomes eligible to not only sell within India but also explore international markets. Here’s what you need to know about distribution and export opportunities:

a. 

Selling in Domestic Market

You can sell products through:

• Offline channels: pharmacies, wellness stores, clinics, Ayurvedic practitioners
   
• Online channels: Amazon, Flipkart, 1mg, JioMart, D2C websites
   

Ensure that:

• Your brand website displays the licence number
   
• Labels are as per regulatory norms
   
• Storage, shipping, and handling meet AYUSH compliance
   

b. 

Selling to Hospitals, Practitioners, and Clinics

Many brands partner with:

• Ayurvedic doctors for in-clinic sales
   
• Wellness spas and Panchakarma centres
   
• Government health missions (with tender registration)
   

For institutional supply, you may need:

• Drug distribution licence
   
• GMP certificate copies
   
• Test reports and free sale certificates
   

c. 

Export Opportunities

India is one of the top exporters of herbal medicines and AYUSH products. Popular markets include:

• USA and Canada
   
• UAE and Saudi Arabia
   
• Germany, France, UK
   
• Southeast Asia and Africa
   

To export, you’ll typically need:

• Ayush manufacturing licence
   
• Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (COPP)
   
• Free Sale Certificate (FSC)
   
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate
   
• Stability data (3–6 months)
   
• Packing and labeling as per importing country’s regulations
   

d. 

Export Licensing Bodies

You may also require registration or approval from:

• DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade)
   
• Pharmexcil for pharma/Ayush promotion
   
• Country-specific drug regulatory bodies (e.g., USFDA, EMA, SFDA)
   

e. 

Challenges in Export

• Complex paperwork and customs documentation
   
• Product registration in the foreign country
   
• Translation and relabelling requirements
   
• Banned herbs or ingredients in some countries
   

A strong compliance and legal team is essential if you plan to export at scale.

11. Ayush Licence for Third-Party Manufacturers

If you’re an entrepreneur without your own manufacturing unit but want to launch your own herbal brand, third-party manufacturing is the most accessible route. It offers flexibility, low startup costs, and minimal regulatory burden.

Here’s how it works:

a. 

What Is Third-Party Manufacturing?

You partner with an existing AYUSH-licensed manufacturing unit that produces your product under their licence, but with your brand name and packaging.

You are not the manufacturer legally—your contract manufacturer is. But you still retain full control over:

• Branding
   
• Marketing
   
• Sales and distribution
   

b. 

Steps to Start with a Third-Party Manufacturer

1. Select a Manufacturer
   
   Choose a manufacturer who already has:
    

• A valid AYUSH manufacturing licence
   
• GMP certification
   
• Capacity to manufacture your dosage forms (capsules, oils, etc.)
   

1. Product Formulation Agreement
   
   Sign a contract outlining:
    

• Product names and specifications
   
• Packaging size and design
   
• Price per batch and payment terms
   
• Delivery timelines
   
• Quality assurance and batch testing requirements
   

1. Label and Branding Approval
   
   You will need to provide:
    

• Label content (based on AYUSH norms)
   
• Brand logo and artwork
   
• Intended usage or claims (must be compliant)
   

1. Compliance and Records
   
   Ensure the manufacturer:
    

• Maintains batch-wise records
   
• Shares lab reports and test results with you
   
• Provides signed invoices and certificates for your product
   

c. 

Pros of Third-Party Manufacturing

• No need to build a factory
   
• No GMP or infrastructure investment
   
• Faster go-to-market
   
• Easy to scale product range
   
• Suitable for wellness brands, eCommerce sellers, and influencers
   

d. 

Cons and Risks

• Limited control over production timelines
   
• Quality assurance depends entirely on the manufacturer
   
• Manufacturer’s licence issues can affect your brand
   
• Need to maintain strong communication and contracts
   

e. 

Who Can Use This Model?

• First-time founders
   
• Doctors or wellness experts launching their line
   
• D2C brands in beauty, immunity, fitness, or mental wellness
   
• Exporters looking to develop proprietary SKUs
   

12. Ayush Licence FAQs

These frequently asked questions (FAQs) will help clarify common doubts for those applying for an Ayush licence:

Q1. Is an Ayush licence mandatory for herbal products?

Yes — if your product is categorized under Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha, or Homeopathic medicine, an Ayush licence is mandatory. This applies to both classical and proprietary formulations. Even if the product is made from natural ingredients, if it has therapeutic claims, it must be licensed.

Q2. What if I only want to sell, not manufacture?

You can obtain a wholesale or retail licence depending on your business model. These licences allow you to distribute or sell licensed Ayush products legally, including via online platforms.

Q3. Can I apply for a licence if I don’t own a factory?

Yes. You can:

• Apply for a loan licence (manufacturing under another unit’s facility)
   
• Use a third-party manufacturer (you won’t need to apply for the licence yourself but must follow branding and documentation compliance)
   

Q4. How long does the Ayush licence remain valid?

Most Ayush licences are valid for five years from the date of issuance. You should apply for renewal 90 days before expiry to avoid penalties or lapses.

Q5. Can I manufacture and market multiple products under one licence?

Yes — but you must get each product approved by the authority. You can file for multiple products in a single licence but will need to pay a product-wise fee and submit separate label and formulation documents.

Q6. Can I sell products on Amazon, 1mg, or my own website?

Yes. With a retail or wholesale licence, and proper labelling and registration, you can legally sell on eCommerce platforms. Ensure the product complies with:

• Ayush labelling norms
   
• FSSAI (if it’s a supplement)
   
• Legal metrology requirements for weights and measures
   

Q7. What happens if my technical person leaves the company?

You must notify the licensing authority immediately and submit details of the new qualified person. A delay can lead to suspension of operations or non-compliance notices.

Q8. Is there a central portal for licence application?

No. Ayush licence applications are handled state-wise, and each state has its own application portal. There’s no national AYUSH licence portal as of now, but central policies apply across states.

Q9. Do I need an Ayush licence for herbal cosmetics like creams or soaps?

If the product is purely cosmetic and makes no therapeutic or medicinal claims, you may need a cosmetic licence (under separate rules). However, many states require an Ayush licence if you use Ayurvedic ingredients and claim any health benefits.

13. Conclusion

The Indian wellness landscape is evolving rapidly. With increased consumer interest in natural, holistic, and traditional systems of medicine, the AYUSH sector is now one of the most dynamic and opportunity-rich domains in healthcare and entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re a startup launching a herbal brand, an established company expanding into alternative medicine, or a practitioner formalizing your offerings, securing an Ayush licence is not just a legal formality — it’s a mark of credibility, safety, and long-term sustainability.

By obtaining the correct type of licence — whether manufacturing, wholesale, or loan — you ensure:

• Compliance with Indian drug laws
   
• Safe and effective product distribution
   
• Eligibility for government schemes, tenders, and subsidies
   
• Access to export markets and global certifications
   

Final Takeaways:

• Always begin with clear documentation, a GMP-ready facility, and qualified staff
   
• Choose the correct licence based on your operational model
   
• Maintain batch records and adhere to labelling norms
   
• Plan for renewals, updates, and product expansion in advance
   
• Consult state drug authorities or experts when in doubt
   

The licensing process may feel complex at first, but with the right planning, it can be navigated efficiently. More importantly, it lays the foundation for a business that’s not only profitable — but also trusted by consumers across India and beyond.

So whether you’re formulating a digestive syrup, creating an herbal cosmetic, or launching a telehealth Ayurveda brand — let your journey begin with compliance, confidence, and a commitment to wellness that lasts.