A Study of Western and Traditional Medical Facilities in Jaipur Princely State

Abstract

Before 1910, healthcare in Jaipur was rooted in indigenous medical traditions. Ayurvedic and Unani practitioners, known as Vaids and Hakims, provided treatments based on centuries-old methods. These practitioners operated without any kind of administration, and were often supported by local communities and patronized by the nobility. The crystallisation of medical services in the Jaipur princely state was done by the efficient administrative setup. The Indian Medical Services and the medical department in Jaipur developed closely together. Highlighting the significance of medical facilities in Jaipur Princely State, this paper explores the comprehensive history of medical facilities in the Jaipur princely state. It focuses on investigating key institutions associated with both modern and traditional medical practices, assessing their contributions to Jaipur's welfare. The study relies heavily on primary sources, including Mahkama Khas documents and Foreign Political Consultation records from Rajasthan State Archives Department website. Additionally, it draws on significant reports such as the Report on the Administration of the Jaipur State, the Annual Report of the Jeypore Medical and Meteorological Institutions, and the Reports on Political Administration of Rajputana States.

DOI: 10.46700/asssr/2025/v7/i2/173