Cuttack: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today laid foundation stone for 300-bedded Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research Hospital on the premises of Sri Sri University here.

Spiritual leader and university founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also graced the occasion as guest, among other dignitaries.

Stating that Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old traditional healing science, has become the new trend all over, the CM announced that a new AYUSH hospital will also come up in Dhenkanal district soon.

He further said that the Government has recognized Ayurveda, Unani and Homeopathy systems of medicine as viable complementing methods of healthcare since long. Around 800 Ayurvedic clinics and five hospitals are functioning in the state, Patnaik added.

“The growth of health institutions in Odisha can substantially improve wellness, provide better health services and promote health tourism.  I hope both public and private initiatives will go a long way in realizing the dream of Healthy Odisha, Happy Odisha,” the CM said.