In the 117th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the rising global presence of Ayurveda, spotlighting Paraguay as a notable example. He praised the dedicated efforts at the Indian Embassy in Paraguay, where Ayurveda consultations are provided by Erica Huber. The initiative has garnered significant attention, with many locals seeking guidance on Ayurveda-based health practices.
This recognition aligns with the Ministry of Ayush’s dedication to promoting Ayurveda as a global health system. Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush, expressed his gratitude to PM Modi, stating, “We thank the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his visionary leadership in advancing Ayurveda on the global stage. The Ministry remains committed to expanding Ayurveda’s reach and establishing it as a universal solution for health and wellness.”
Major Initiatives Driving Ayurveda’s Global Expansion
The Ministry of Ayush has spearheaded various efforts to strengthen Ayurveda’s global footprint:
- Global Collaborations
- Over 24 country-level and 48 institute-level MoUs signed for collaborative research and education.
- Establishment of 15 academic chairs globally to foster Ayurveda education and research.
- Ayush Information Cells in 39 locations across 35 countries acting as knowledge hubs.
- Strategic Agreements
- Notable partnerships include a Donor Agreement with WHO and MoUs with countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Mauritius to promote traditional medicine.
- Recognition and Institutional Support
- Launch of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar.
- Inclusion of traditional medicine in WHO’s ICD-11, marking a milestone for global recognition.
- Ayush Visa and Medical Tourism
- Introduction of the Ayush Visa to support medical tourism, encouraging global visitors to experience India’s holistic healing traditions.
The success of the 9th Ayurveda Day on October 29, 2024, celebrated across 150 countries under the theme “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health,” further underscored the growing acceptance of Ayurveda worldwide.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, highlighted the impact of these global initiatives, stating, “The Prime Minister’s vision and guidance have been instrumental in building the global acceptance of Ayurveda. Through international collaborations, India is reinforcing its leadership in traditional medicine and its relevance in modern healthcare systems.”
Ayurveda’s rise from a traditional Indian practice to a global wellness phenomenon showcases India’s leadership in holistic health solutions, paving the way for a healthier, more harmonious world.