Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 117th episode of his radio program Mann Ki Baat, shed light on the increasing global prominence of Ayurveda, citing its growing influence in Paraguay. Highlighting this remarkable development, he shared, “There is a country in South America called Paraguay. The number of Indians living there would not be more than one thousand. A wonderful effort is being done in Paraguay. At the Indian Embassy in Paraguay, Erica Huber offers Ayurveda Consultation. A large number of local people are reaching out to her to get Ayurveda-based advice.”
This acknowledgment reflects the dedicated efforts of the Ministry of Ayush to position Ayurveda as a universal health and wellness solution. Prataprao Jadhav, the Union Minister of State for Ayush and Health, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his visionary leadership. He affirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Ayurveda’s global presence and promoting it as a holistic healthcare system.
The Ministry of Ayush has been at the forefront of initiatives that have significantly enhanced Ayurveda’s international reach. Collaborative efforts include signing 24 country-level and 48 institute-level agreements, fostering research and education partnerships globally. Additionally, 15 academic chairs have been established worldwide to promote Ayurveda studies, with Ayush Information Cells operational in 39 locations across 35 countries, serving as vital knowledge hubs.
Strategic partnerships have also advanced Ayurveda’s global standing, with notable agreements such as the Donor Agreement with WHO, cooperation on medicinal plants with Vietnam, and collaborative initiatives with Malaysia and Mauritius. The establishment of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar and the inclusion of traditional medicine in the ICD-11 system by WHO further highlight Ayurveda’s growing global recognition.
India’s initiatives, including the Ayush Visa program, are driving medical tourism by positioning the nation as a hub for holistic healing. The success of the 9th Ayurveda Day, celebrated on October 29, 2024, in over 150 countries, underscores this progress. Themed “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health,” the event showcased India’s leadership in traditional medicine.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, highlighted that Prime Minister Modi’s vision and the Ministry’s persistent efforts are instrumental in Ayurveda’s expanding global network.
