Unani Day 2024: India Reaffirms Global Leadership in Traditional Medicine

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, affirmed India's leadership position in the world of traditional medicine, calling it a monument to the nation's medical ability. This affirmation took place during the inauguration of Unani Day 2024 and the National Conference on Unani Medicine for One Earth, One Health. The Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) organized the event at Pusa, New Delhi, bringing together key figures in the field to discuss and celebrate the significant contributions of Unani Medicine.

Secretary Kotecha emphasized the paramount importance of evidence-based scientific research during his address. He underscored the wealth of research data generated within the Ayush sector, highlighting the strides made in understanding and promoting traditional healing systems.

Distinguished Guests and Chief Guest's Keynote

The event saw the presence of notable figures such as Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, Chairman, National Commission for Indian System of Medicine; Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, Islamic University of Science & Technology; Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ah. Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; Dr. Sunchu Glory Swarupa, Director General, National Institute for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, among others.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, serving as the chief guest, highlighted the profound significance of Unani Day. He elaborated on the theme for Unani Day 2024, ‘Unani Medicine for One Earth, One Health,’ emphasizing the shared responsibility for the planet's well-being and the necessity for global collaboration in addressing health challenges. Secretary Kotecha reiterated the Indian government's commitment to integrating and promoting traditional systems of medicine, including Unani, with a focus on their holistic approach to healthcare and preventive measures.

Acknowledging Unani Medicine's Role

In his welcome address, Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General, CCRUM, paid homage to the revered freedom fighter and scientific research pioneer in Unani Medicine, Hakim Ajmal Khan. Dr. Ahmed emphasized that Unani Day serves as a special occasion to acknowledge the significant role Unani Medicine plays in alleviating the suffering of the masses.

Milestones and Collaborations

Several milestones were achieved during the event, including the release of various publications, e-books, a Mobile App on Unani compound drugs, and a documentary – all developed by the CCRUM. Noteworthy achievements included the awarding of NABH and NABL certificates to four CCRUM institutes. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between CCRUM and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, signifying a significant collaboration in the realm of health sciences.

Technical Sessions and Panel Discussion

The technical sessions witnessed experts and luminaries from the health sciences field sharing knowledge and experiences related to the conference theme. Stakeholders from industry, academia, and research organizations, particularly those involved in the development of Unani Medicine, actively participated in the conference. Prof. Asim Ali Khan, Chairman, SAC, CCRUM, chaired a panel discussion on the conference theme, fostering meaningful dialogue and insights.

The CCRUM released printed books such as 'Jahan-e-Tib (Alami Waba Number)' and 'Adwiya Kulwiyya - A Compendium of Classical and Evidence-based Unani Drugs Acting on the Kidneys.' E-books like 'Muheet-i-Azam, vol. 1 (Urdu)' and 'Kitabul Mi-at fit-Tib (Arabic)' were also unveiled. Recognition was bestowed upon CCRUM scientists for their outstanding research papers through the awarding of appreciation certificates.