India’s Pivotal Role in Shaping the Future of Traditional Medicine
Table of Contents
The recent Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, organized by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and co-hosted by the Ministry of Ayush, has not only marked a historic milestone but also underscored India’s growing influence in the realm of Traditional Medicine.
A Historic Gathering
In a significant development, Union Minister of Ayush Shri Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the summit’s key outcomes would soon be unveiled in the form of the “Gujarat Declaration.” This declaration, to be made public by WHO, carries immense importance as it highlights the global significance of Traditional Medicine.
Traditional Medicine on the Rise
During the summit, WHO shared preliminary findings from a global survey on Traditional Medicine, signaling an upward trend in its adoption worldwide. The final survey results are anticipated in November this year. These findings reveal that 97 out of 157 WHO member states have established National Policies concerning Traditional Medicine, underscoring its global reach and recognition.
Embracing Traditional Medicine
Union Minister Sonowal emphasized the efforts of the Ministry of Ayush to expand the influence of Indian Systems of Traditional Medicine. Bilateral meetings with countries like Nepal, Malaysia, Qatar, Venezuela, and Cuba have yielded fruitful exchanges. These interactions aim to foster collaboration in research, practices, education, and training in the field of Ayurveda and other Traditional Medicine systems.
Prime Minister Modi’s Vision
The Global Summit stands as a testament to the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. His commitment led to the establishment of the Global Centre of Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and subsequently, India hosted this groundbreaking summit. The outcomes of this event are set to shape the future of the Global Centre of Traditional Medicine and will influence WHO’s strategy document for 2025-2034 on Traditional Medicine.
A Digital Future
Traditional Medicine is not confined to the past; it’s embracing the future. The summit delved into the demand for Digital Health Services worldwide and the potential of Traditional Medicine to provide evidence-based healthcare to humanity. Exciting developments are anticipated through the Global Centre of Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar.
Global Dialogue
This summit held additional significance as it coincided with the G20 Health Ministers meeting. This unique conjunction facilitated discussions on Traditional Medicine at the G20 platform. The commitment of member countries to incorporate scientific and evidence-based Traditional Medicine into Universal Health Coverage was strongly reflected in the outcomes of the Health Ministers Meeting.
In conclusion, the WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine reaffirms India’s pivotal role in promoting Traditional Medicine on the global stage. With the forthcoming Gujarat Declaration and the continued efforts of the Ministry of Ayush, the world is poised to witness the resurgence of traditional healing methods as a valuable component of universal healthcare.
Read More: Official Press Release