In a historic moment, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, will inaugurate the groundbreaking Traditional Medicine Global Summit, jointly organized by the Ministry of Ayush and the World Health Organisation. The summit is scheduled to take place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on August 17th and 18th, 2023, marking a significant leap forward in the integration of traditional healing practices into modern healthcare.
Organizers, including the Ministry of Ayush and the WHO, have meticulously planned this transformative event, focusing on key areas crucial for advancing traditional medical practices. These include research, evidence-based policies, data regulations, innovation, digital health, and the conservation of biodiversity and traditional knowledge. The summit aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from around the world.
During a media briefing in Gandhinagar, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, highlighted the paramount role of the summit. It seeks to explore the multifaceted applications of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine in addressing contemporary health challenges and propelling global health and sustainable development. The integration of traditional practices into mainstream healthcare is a significant step toward holistic well-being.
Gandhinagar, chosen as the venue, holds special significance due to the establishment of the Global Centre on Traditional Medicines in Jamnagar, Gujarat, by the WHO. This center serves as a pioneering hub for fostering collaboration between traditional healing systems and modern medical science, further solidifying the global importance of the summit.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’ presence at the summit reaffirms its international importance. The participation of health ministers from 30 countries, scientists, practitioners of traditional medicine, healthcare workers, and civil society members underscores the event’s global reach.
Shri Lav Agarwal, addressing the media, highlighted India’s contributions to healthcare, emphasizing the expansion of Yoga Centers worldwide, showcasing the nation’s commitment to holistic well-being. As India holds the G20 presidency, the summit echoes India’s dedication to global healthcare advancement.
The summit’s impact extends beyond its duration. It aims to chart a holistic and healthier future by recognizing the interconnectedness between human health, planetary harmony, and technological progress. As the event progresses, discussions are expected to shape the direction of traditional medicine globally.
With an immersive Ayush Exhibition Zone and participation from over 90 countries, the Traditional Medicine Global Summit promises a transformative exchange of ideas and a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation. As the event unfolds in Gandhinagar, the world eagerly anticipates the dawn of a new era in healthcare, emphasizing the fusion of traditional wisdom and modern medical advancements.
