Advancements in Traditional Medicine are Revolutionising Healthcare: Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai MoS, Ministry of Ayush and Women & Child Development

New Delhi: “Advancements in technology, such as telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, are revolutionising healthcare and can be integrated with traditional medicine,” stated, Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai, Minister of State, Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Women & Child Development, Govt of India, at the National Conference on ‘Traditional and Alternative Medicine- Exploring New Horizons and Advancements’ in New Delhi.

Dr. Kalubhai emphasised the importance of integrating traditional practices with advancements in modern medicine. He stated, “It is our duty to lead the way in promoting the synergy of traditional and modern medicines with cutting-edge scientific research”, at the national conference organised by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

Dr. Kalubhai highlighted the role of technology, including telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, in revolutionising healthcare. He stated, “From telemedicine to artificial intelligence and big data analytics, we have a wealth of tools at our disposal to improve diagnostics, treatment, and patient outcomes.”

The Government of India, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, is committed to promoting traditional systems of medicine globally. Dr. Kalubhai mentioned the Global Ayush Investment and Innovation Summit, 2022 (GAIIS), stating, “Ayush sector witnessed Letter of Intents (LOIs) worth 9000 crores in just three days.” He also highlighted the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for country-to-country cooperation, collaborative research and development, and the establishment of Ayush Academic Chairs in foreign universities/institutes.

Dr. Kalubhai mentioned the growth of the Ayush sector in education and global business. He stated, “The Ayush Export Promotion Council (Ayushexil) has not only grown in education but also in global business.” The establishment of this council aims to promote Ayush products and services worldwide, contributing to the sector’s business growth.

 

Dr. Kalubhai highlighted the collaboration between the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Government of India, stating, “WHO and Government of India have established the world’s first and the only Global Centre for Traditional Medicine.” This center aims to integrate traditional medicine with technological advancements and evidence-based research.

 

Dr. Kalubhai’s address concluded with an optimistic outlook for the future of healthcare in India, emphasising the potential of traditional and modern medicines working harmoniously. He stated, “By doing so, we can truly unlock the full potential of our healthcare system, providing affordable, accessible, and effective solutions for the health and well-being of every Indian.”

 

Dr. Raman Mohan Singh, Director Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H), Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, presented insights on the importance of product quality in healthcare in his special address. “Industry bodies all over the world are eager to investigate Ayurvedic methods in their systems,” he added. Stakeholders and government agencies both demanded that Ayurveda be elevated. According to WHO criteria, API is at par with the other international institutions,” he said.

 

 

Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Co-Chairperson of ASSOCHAM National Wellness Council and Chairperson of Aroma Magic Pvt Ltd., made an inspiring welcoming speech and emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare. She continued, “Especially in the post-COVID era, it’s not just about treating the symptoms; we must address the roots.” “It is necessary to empower people to actively participate in their healthcare and to maintain a critical mindset when making healthcare decisions. Healthcare advancements are substantially facilitated by technological breakthroughs and increasing scientific awareness of the mind-body connection. Holistic healthcare is the way of the future,” Ms. Kochhar added.

 

Mr. Abishek Ramesh, Co-Chair ASSOCHAM National Wellness Council, Executive Director Kairali Ayurveda Group, remarked in his closing remarks, “There are 8000 hospitals under the Ministry of Ayush and 20,000 practitioners showcasing Ayush healthcare services.”

 

Mr. Madhusudan Chauhan, CEO Jiva Ayurveda highlighted that Ayush and Ayurveda are not alternative systems, they significantly impact the nation’s healthcare landscape. In India, Ayush follows a structured, regulated, and standardized approach with over 7 lakhs+ registered technicians, 3000+ hospitals, and 20,000+ dispensaries. He further said, Events like International Yoga Day and National Ayurveda Day have gained momentum globally. Setting up a global sector for traditional medicine has been a major achievement in the last 7 to 8 years, with India leading a pioneer in practice-based medicine.