Nationwide Network of Affordable AYUSH Medicine Centers to be Established: : Prataprao Jadhav

Inauguration of the 8th International Ayurveda Congress at Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth

Pune: "Ayurveda is an effective treatment method for all types of ailments. It is gaining global recognition. To enhance Ayurveda's effectiveness, the AYUSH Ministry is promoting research expansion, innovation, and startups," stated Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of AYUSH. He also mentioned that a nationwide network of affordable AYUSH medicine centers will be established to ensure easy access to holistic AYUSH medicines.

He emphasized that for Ayurveda to be more effective, in-depth research on medicinal plants, the development of new treatment methods, and the integration of modern technology are essential to establish Ayurveda's global recognition.

The 8th International Ayurveda Congress was inaugurated by Prataprao Jadhav at Dr. D. Y. Patil (Deemed) University’s Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Ayurveda & Research Center in Pune. The event was organized in collaboration with the All India Ayurveda Congress (New Delhi), the International Maharishi Ayurveda Foundation (Netherlands), and the International Academy of Ayurveda. The inauguration ceremony, held at the university's auditorium in Pimpri, was attended by dignitaries including Chancellor Dr. P. D. Patil, Vice-Chancellor Dr. N. J. Pawar, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Secretary of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Society Dr. Smita Jadhav, Member of Parliament Shrirang Barne, U.S.-based scientist Dr. Tony Nader, AYUSH Ministry Advisor Vaidya Manoj Nesari, Chairman of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Vaidya Jayant Devpujari, AYUSH National Research Professor Dr. Bhushan Patwardhan, Chairman of the All India Ayurveda Congress Vaidya Devendra Triguna, Dr. Girish Momaya from the International Maharishi Ayurveda Foundation, Professor Dr. Subhash Ranade from the International Academy of Ayurveda, and Principal of Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Ayurveda & Research Center Dr. Gunvant Yeola.

During the congress, Dr. Gunvant Yeola and Dr. Walter Moelk were honored with the ‘Ayurveda Dhanvantari Award’ for their global contributions to Ayurveda. Additionally, Dr. Sanjeev Goyal, Dr. Akhilesh Verma, Dr. S. N. Pandey, and Dr. Ramdas Awhad were recognized for their significant contributions to the field. The two-day conference, officially recognized by the AYUSH Ministry and the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine, saw extensive efforts from Research Director Prof. Dr. Asmita Vele, Head of Kaya Chikitsa Department Prof. Dr. D. G. Deepankar, and Head of Rachana Department Prof. Dr. Yogesh Kutte. The event hosted over 100 international experts from 10 countries, more than 1,200 national researchers, Ayurvedic practitioners, professors, and students, with 500+ research papers presented.

Prataprao Jadhav emphasized, "Yoga and Ayurveda are India's identity. Ayurveda has reached over 100 countries, and Yoga Day is celebrated in 180 countries. Under visonary Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, various initiatives are being implemented to promote Ayurveda on a global scale. In-depth research is essential to enhance the effectiveness and credibility of Ayurvedic medicines and treatments. Therefore, research is being prioritized. Plans are underway to establish research and development centers at institutions like Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth & other. Several Ayurvedic medicines are now receiving ISO certification. The 'Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan' initiative, aimed at integrating Ayurveda into every household in India, has already gathered health data of over 12.5 million people."

Dr. P. D. Patil stated, "It is a moment of pride that India's first International Ayurveda Congress is taking place in Pune at our institution. The presence of Ayurvedic experts and students from around the world facilitates knowledge exchange. Integrating Ayurveda into public healthcare services is a positive step. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to promote Vedic culture and Ayurveda is commendable. The combination of modern science and Ayurveda through research-based treatments will be beneficial for society. We must all contribute to making Ayurveda effective, accessible, and widely available."

Dr. Smita Jadhav, in her opening remarks, said, "This conference has fostered discussions on Ayurvedic research, innovative advancements, future prospects, challenges, and solutions for various diseases and treatments. Students had the opportunity to learn about global Ayurveda, technology, and innovation. Such conferences encourage research-mindedness among students and promote an innovation and startup culture."

Vaidya Manoj Nesari remarked, "Maharishi Ayurveda is a globally renowned social institution. The export of Ayurvedic products is increasing, and the field is expanding significantly. Ayurveda is gaining worldwide acceptance, and research is strengthening its credibility and effectiveness."