India-ASEAN Conference on Traditional Medicines Prioritizes Sustainable Health Goals

The Ministry of Ayush, in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Mission to ASEAN, organized a conference on traditional medicines between India and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) to strengthen healthcare systems and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Universal Health Coverage. The conference, which took place nearly a decade after the previous one, aimed to solidify sustainable and resilient healthcare practices.

A number of prominent personalities graced the event including the Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and MoS for Ayush and WCD, Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai, who served as Guests of Honor. Dignitaries and representatives from ASEAN countries also attended this prestigious occasion. The conference saw the participation of 75 delegates from India and ASEAN, with two ASEAN countries joining virtually.

Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the significance of the Conference on Traditional Medicine between India and ASEAN countries as a platform to discuss various dimensions of Traditional systems of Medicine. He highlighted their potential role in achieving the aim of "One Health" and Sustainable Development Goals. He also reaffirmed India's commitment to the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," expressing India's willingness to collaborate with ASEAN nations for the greater good.

The Minister recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's enunciation of the "Act East Policy" during the 12th ASEAN India Summit in November 2014, which focuses on Connectivity, Commerce, and Culture, further strengthening the strategic partnership between India and ASEAN.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, addressed the conference through a video message, highlighting the shared cultural and traditional medicinal practices between India and ASEAN. He emphasized the importance of cooperation on public health through Traditional and Complementary Medicines, reflecting the synergy between ASEAN and India.

Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai pointed out the similarities in traditional healing systems of India and ASEAN, including herbal remedies, holistic approaches, and cultural practices like Ayurveda. He also emphasized the goodness of Millets, as prescribed in Ayurveda, and their benefits for overall health. He mentioned that, at India's proposal, the United Nations has declared 2023 as the 'International Year of Millet,' leading to the integration of millets into people's daily diets based on regional preferences.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, welcomed the guests and delegates, setting the tone for the conference. He expressed the importance of fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between India and ASEAN to create innovative and collaborative solutions in healthcare.

During the conference sessions, experts from India and ASEAN shared their research and initiatives in combating the pandemic. The second session focused on knowledge sharing regarding regulatory frameworks, quality control measures, and the integration of traditional medicine into existing healthcare systems.