The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, attended the 75th anniversary celebration of Gopabandhu Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya in Puri, Odisha, on December 4, 2024.
Speaking on the occasion, the President emphasized that we are living in an era of science and technology. Innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, and 3-D printing are revolutionizing both education and development. However, she pointed out that to understand the present and shape the future, we must first acknowledge and learn from our past. India’s rich historical contributions to fields like physics, chemistry, astronomy, medicine, mathematics, and architecture must be recognized. Scientists such as Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, Varahamihira, and Bhaskaracharya made significant contributions to these fields. Similarly, the legacies of Charak and Sushruta in medical science are invaluable.
The President noted that traditional Indian medical systems emphasize both prevention and cure. She expressed her confidence that the students of Gopabandhu Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya would engage in research into the lesser-explored aspects of Ayurveda, alongside their roles as practicing doctors. Such research, she said, would help validate the authenticity of this ancient medical system and raise its global recognition.
Further, the President highlighted that tribal communities have long held knowledge of the medicinal properties of herbs. Unfortunately, this traditional wisdom is gradually being lost. She expressed her hope that the students of the college would investigate the scientific basis of these traditional healing practices, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
