Shegaon, Maharashtra: The four-day National Arogya Fair 2026 concluded successfully in Shegaon, reaffirming India’s commitment to holistic healthcare and rural empowerment through Ayush systems. Organised by the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic Congress, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from citizens, practitioners, researchers and thousands of farmers across Vidarbha.
President Inaugurates National Event
The Fair was inaugurated by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who emphasised that health is the foundation of true happiness. She underlined the relevance of Ayush systems in offering a balanced lifestyle rooted in harmony between body and mind.
During the inaugural ceremony, eminent practitioners were honoured with the Lifetime Ayurvedic Gaurav Samman for their decades-long contribution to Ayurveda and public health. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Acharya Devvrat, described Ayurveda as a timeless scientific tradition and stressed the importance of authenticity and quality standards.
Ayush as a Movement for Preventive Care
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, played an active role throughout the four days, interacting with stakeholders and reviewing outreach initiatives. He described the National Arogya Fair as a “Mahakumbh of Indian traditional medicine systems.”
Highlighting the Centre’s focus under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he reiterated that Ayush is not merely a treatment system but a nationwide movement promoting preventive healthcare, rural prosperity and global wellness leadership. He also pointed to the growing potential of Ayush tourism in boosting employment and strengthening rural economies.
Massive Healthcare Outreach
A key highlight of the Fair was the large-scale free healthcare services provided to the public. Dedicated OPD counters for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy witnessed substantial footfall.
Thousands availed free consultations, health check-ups and authentic Ayush medicines. Visitors appreciated the integrated approach that addressed lifestyle disorders, chronic illnesses and preventive care under one roof.
Live Yoga demonstrations and therapy sessions attracted participants across age groups. A Yoga competition involving students and youth reflected the rising acceptance of Yoga as a preventive and promotive health practice. The Ayush Aahar segment, showcasing balanced regional diets based on traditional principles, also received strong public response.
Scientific Research and Public Awareness
The Ministry’s pavilion displayed research outcomes from its councils and national institutes, alongside initiatives of the National Medicinal Plants Board. Interactive exhibits on medicinal plants, herbal formulations and home-based remedies drew interest from rural visitors and self-help groups.
Through lectures, therapy showcases and industry exhibitions, the Fair facilitated knowledge exchange between policymakers, researchers and grassroots stakeholders. It reinforced the integrated vision of health and livelihood.
Focus on Farmers and Medicinal Cultivation
A distinctive feature of the National Arogya Fair 2026 was its dedicated outreach to farmers. Special workshops on Ayurvedic farming covered cultivation techniques, value addition and assured market linkages for medicinal plants.
Nearly 2,000 farmers participated in sessions coordinated with agricultural experts. The signing of multiple Letters of Intent, including a buy-back arrangement for turmeric procurement, marked a significant step toward strengthening supply chains and ensuring remunerative returns.
Farmers from Vidarbha welcomed the initiative, noting that diversification into medicinal plant cultivation offers sustainable income opportunities alongside traditional crops. The Fair demonstrated how healthcare advancement and agricultural development can move forward together.
Strengthening India’s Holistic Healthcare Vision
The successful conclusion of the National Arogya Fair 2026 reflects the Ministry of Ayush’s sustained efforts to expand public access to traditional medicine while strengthening research and quality benchmarks. By combining free healthcare services, youth engagement through Yoga and structured support for farmers, the Fair showcased a holistic development model.
As India aims to emerge as a global hub for holistic wellness, initiatives like the National Arogya Fair reinforce the synergy between public health, rural development and cultural heritage.
