The first-ever World Health Organization Global Summit on Traditional Medicine was inaugurated today in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, coinciding with the G20 health ministerial meet. The event witnessed esteemed dignitaries, including the Director-General of WHO, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Union Minister of Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, lighting the ceremonial lamp amidst auspicious hymns dedicated to Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda.
Present at the occasion were Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel, Union MoS for Ayush, Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai, and senior representatives from WHO.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom mentioned that traditional medicine holds a legacy dating back to the earliest days of humanity. He pointed out its ongoing relevance in modern times and its significance within various communities and cultures worldwide. He also praised the Indian Government's Ayushman Bharat Initiative for successfully incorporating traditional medicine into primary healthcare services in rural regions.
Addressing the gathering, Sarbananda Sonowal affirmed that the outcome of the historic WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit will pave the way for recommendations within future G20 presidencies. He highlighted India's integrative approach, leading to the establishment of dedicated Ayush Departments in all AIIMS institutions. This progress, he noted, is attributed to the clear vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recognized the efficacy of Ayush and championed its advancement for the well-being of both India and the global population.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in his address, paid homage to the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel in shaping the nation. He emphasized the role of the WHO GCTM in elevating traditional medicine within mainstream healthcare and positioning India as a knowledge hub in this domain. With over 170 countries utilizing traditional medicine, the summit offers a vital platform for international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of best practices.
Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, shared how Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisioned traditional medicine as a powerful tool, particularly in addressing crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This vision culminated in connecting nations worldwide under the banner of Traditional Medicine, culminating in the world's first Traditional Medicine Global Summit.
The event featured an experiential Ayush Exhibition Zone, showcasing the achievements of the Ministry of Ayush in education, healthcare, research, and public health. The theme, 'Ayush for Planetary Health and Well-being,' emphasized sustainable practices.
Visitors were immersed in the world of Ayush through displays of medicinal plants, sustainable manufacturing pavilions, interactive kiosks, and AI-based Ayurveda Pulse diagnosis. The exhibition highlighted the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha, and included a live Yoga demonstration.
