Major boost to Unani research infrastructure
The renovated co-location centre has been upgraded at an estimated cost of ₹3.84 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernising traditional medicine facilities. Established in 1984, the RRIUM Mumbai centre has played a crucial role in clinical research, education, and healthcare delivery in the field of Unani medicine.
Located within JJ Hospital, one of Mumbai’s premier public healthcare institutions, the upgraded centre provides a unique platform for collaboration between traditional and modern medical systems. This integrative approach is expected to improve patient outcomes while strengthening research validation and scientific credibility of Unani treatments.
The upgraded infrastructure includes improved clinical facilities, research laboratories, and academic spaces. Experts believe the centre will help accelerate evidence-based research and contribute to developing validated treatment protocols aligned with modern scientific standards.
National conference to drive innovation and collaboration
The inauguration will be followed by the formal launch of a two-day national conference titled “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice.” Organised by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) under the Ministry of Ayush, the conference will bring together leading researchers, practitioners, academicians, and policymakers from across India.
The conference will feature keynote addresses, scientific presentations, panel discussions, and exhibitions showcasing research advancements and pharmaceutical innovations in Unani medicine. The discussions will focus on strengthening evidence-based approaches, expanding research collaborations, and integrating Unani treatments into mainstream healthcare systems.
Several institutional initiatives will also be unveiled during the conference, including the launch of new digital platforms, collaborative web portals, and mobile applications aimed at improving accessibility and knowledge sharing. The event will also witness the release of research publications, signing of collaborative agreements, and recognition of outstanding contributions to Unani medicine.
Participation of senior government and healthcare leaders
The inaugural session will be attended by prominent dignitaries from the government and healthcare sectors. These include Maharashtra Minister of Co-operation Shri Babasaheb Patil, Minister of Public Health and Family Welfare Shri Prakash Abitkar, and Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha.
Senior healthcare officials and academic leaders such as Dr. Maneesha Upendra Kothekar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine, and Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General of CCRUM, will also participate. Their presence highlights the growing institutional focus on strengthening traditional healthcare systems through policy support, research, and education.
The conference is expected to create a platform for dialogue, enabling collaboration between research institutions, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare providers.
Unani Day 2026 celebrates legacy and future of traditional medicine
Unani Day is observed annually on February 11 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan, one of India’s most respected Unani physicians, educationists, and freedom fighters. His contributions played a crucial role in institutionalising Unani medicine and promoting scientific education in India.
The celebration serves as a reminder of India’s rich medical heritage and the importance of preserving and modernising traditional healthcare practices. It also reflects the government’s broader strategy to integrate traditional medicine into the national healthcare framework.
The Ministry of Ayush has been actively working to strengthen traditional medical systems through research, education, digital initiatives, and global outreach.
Strengthening integrative healthcare and global outreach
The upgraded RRIUM centre and the national conference represent key steps in advancing integrative healthcare in India. By combining traditional knowledge with modern research methodologies, the government aims to build scientific credibility and expand the global acceptance of Unani medicine.
Healthcare experts believe the integration of Unani medicine within modern hospital environments will improve patient access to holistic treatment options. It will also provide new opportunities for clinical research, medical education, and pharmaceutical innovation.
India’s traditional medicine sector has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by government initiatives, international interest, and growing demand for alternative and complementary healthcare solutions. The strengthening of research institutions like RRIUM is expected to further enhance India’s leadership in traditional medicine globally.
The inauguration of the renovated research centre and the hosting of a national conference in Mumbai underscore the government’s commitment to promoting scientific validation, innovation, and global collaboration in Unani medicine. The initiative is expected to benefit researchers, healthcare professionals, and patients while contributing to the long-term growth and recognition of India’s traditional healthcare systems.
