India is positioning itself at the centre of the global stage when it comes to promotion of the traditional system of medicines, said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping & Waterways One Earth, One Family, One Health is India's course of action while Prevention, Curation and Rehabilitation are sources to keep us healthy as a society. Having to develop the temperament and eagerness to promote traditional medicines globally from going local to vocal and vocal to global is the vision the country is carrying with itself, he said while speaking at ‘the 3rd International Exhibition and Conference on Ayush and Wellness sector - ‘International Arogya 2024’ organized by Ministry of Ayush in association with FICCI, supported Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, State Government of Uttar Pradesh and Ayushexcil. The 3rd International Exhibition & Conference on Ayush & Wellness, including an Exhibition and Conference, is being held across four days from February 22 to 25, at Awadh Shilpgram, Lucknow. Sonowal said, “I believe that the International Arogya 2024 will be highly significant and will provide substantial impetus to the future course of action for the health and wellness sector. Now, India can witness the available resources within the country, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has already recognized Indian capabilities and resources, establishing their extension office in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and moving from Geneva. We have more than 170 countries practising traditional systems of medicine, while India is the first country to establish a particular distinction.” Dr. Munjapara Mahendrabhai, Union minister of state, Ministry of Ayush and Women and Child Development while addressing the event, said," For the past decade, the Ministry of Ayush has spearheaded transformative initiatives in the Ayush sector, reshaping India's traditional medicine landscape". Since its inception in 2014, the Ministry of Ayush has undertaken several initiatives like signing MoU’s with 24 countries while collaborating with traditional medicines and homoeopathy, in 34 countries Ayush Ministry has established 39 Ayush information cells furthermore introduced a grid regional health care system along with 22 key digital initiatives for demonstrating our dedication to technology integration. The government's efforts have fuelled growth in manufacturing, exports, and the rise of MSMEs and startups while recognising healthcare excellence, said the Minister. With a thriving manufacturing industry and expanding exports, Ayush solidifies its position as a global health powerhouse which signifies India's commitment to the health and wellness sector, he added. Dayashanker Mishra, minister of state, Ayush, Food Security and Drug Administration, Government of Uttar Pradesh stated, “With the aim of providing better healthcare facilities to the people, 4,000 small and large hospitals have been established in Uttar Pradesh. Currently, 11 hospitals with 50 beds are providing services, and 14 new hospitals are under construction in various district headquarters while an Ayush University is being established in Gorakhpur, 19 government medical colleges are operational, and 2 new ones are being built. Additionally, 86 private medical colleges and 300-400 pharmacy and nursing colleges are committed to providing simple and easy healthcare services to the people.” Leena Johari IAS, Principal Secretary, Government of Uttar Pradesh, while addressing the event, highlighted and underscored the critical role of research and education in validating Ayush, emphasizing state support for its viability as a medical alternative. With provisions in the state budget for research and education in Ayurveda, Unani, and Homoeopathy, Ayush is poised for advancement. Integration with modern medicine and mapping dispensaries reflect Ayush's commitment to holistic well-being. Together, these efforts pave the way for a healthier future Arvind Varchaswi, co-chair, FICCI Ayush Committee; and Managing Director, Sri Sri Tattva said “Ayush's global recognition underscores its enduring significance. With representation from 60+ countries, industry and government commitment ensure quality and research advancement. Embrace Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy for holistic well-being." During the event, a report on IndieExport [Compliance Roadmap for Traditional & Complementary Medicines (T&CM) Exports] & Ayush Works (A Compendium of Scientific Evidence) Volume I were unveiled. The report IndieExport showcased Indian Ayush exports' remarkable growth, exceeding $1.24 billion in the last two years. Key importers like the US, EU, and UAE demonstrate diverse global demand, with emerging markets such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mauritius contributing significantly. With the global T&CM market projected to reach $694 billion by 2030, there's immense potential for Ayush and others. The book titled “Ayush Works” highlighted the rapid growth of India's Ayush industry, valued at $ 18.1 billion in 2020 and projected to reach $66 billion by 2025. Supported by increasing awareness and government backing, Ayush practices like Ayurveda and Yoga are being scientifically validated, paving the way for their integration with modern medicine and new drug discoveries. This growth trajectory underscores Ayush's potential to make a significant impact on global health and well-being.
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