Sarbananda Sonowal

 India is positioning itself at the centre of the global stage, particularly for the promotion of the traditional system of medicine : Sarbananda Sonowal

International Arogya 2024 will be highly significant and will provide substantial impetus to the future course of action for the health and wellness sector

The 3rd International Exhibition & Conference on Ayush & Wellness, including an Exhibition and Conference, is being held across four days from February 22nd -25th, at Awadh Shilpgram, Lucknow.

Free health check-ups and consultations, Counselling by Specialists, lectures on Ayush, Yoga demonstrations and naturopathy sessions will be the main attraction for the public in International Arogya 2024

Lucknow, 22nd February 2024 – Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of India, today said that India is positing itself at the centre of the global stage, particularly for the promotion of a traditional system of medicine. One Earth, One Family, One Health is our course of action while Prevention, Curation and Rehabilitation are sources to keep us healthy as a society. Having to develop the temperament and eagerness to promote traditional medicines globally from going local to vocal and vocal to global is the vision we are carrying with us. 

Speaking at ‘the 3rd International Exhibition and Conference on Ayush and Wellness sector - ‘International Arogya 2024’ organized by Ministry of Ayush in association with FICCI, supported Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, State Government of UttarPradesh and Ayushexcil, Shri Sonowal said,“By 2047, India aims to become the number one developed nation in the world, demonstrating the power we possess for the next 25 years. I believe that the International Arogya 2024 will be highly significant and will provide substantial impetus to the future course of action for the health and wellness sector. Now, India can witness the available resources within the country, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has already recognized Indian capabilities and resources, establishing their extension office in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and moving from Geneva. We have more than 170 countries practising traditional systems of medicine, while India is the first country to establish a particular distinction.”

Dr. Munjapara Mahendrabhai, Hon’ble Minister of State, Ministry of Ayush and Women and Child Development,Government of India while addressing the event, said," For the past decade, the Ministry of Ayush has spearheaded transformative initiatives in the Ayush sector, reshaping India's traditional medicine landscape". 

Since its inception in 2014. The Ministry of Ayush has undertaken several initiatives like signing MoU’s with 24 countries while collaborating with traditional medicines and homoeopathy, in 34 countries Ayush Ministry has established 39 Ayush information cells furthermore introduced a grid regional health care system along with 22 key digital initiatives for demonstrating our dedication to technology integration. Our efforts have fuelled growth in manufacturing, exports, and the rise of MSMEs and startups while recognising healthcare excellence. With a thriving manufacturing industry and expanding exports, Ayush solidifies its position as a global health powerhouse which signifies our commitment to the health and wellness sector.

Shri Dayashanker Mishra, Minister of State, Ayush, Food Security and Drug Administration, Government of Uttar Pradesh stated, “With the aim of providing better healthcare facilities to the people, 4000 small and large hospitals have been established in Uttar Pradesh. Currently, 11 hospitals with 50 beds are providing services, and 14 new hospitals are under construction in various district headquarters while an Ayush University is being established in Gorakhpur, 19 government medical colleges are operational, and 2 new ones are being built. Additionally, 86 private medical colleges and 300-400 pharmacy and nursing colleges are committed to providing simple and easy healthcare services to the people.”

Smt. Pratibha Shukla, Member of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Hon’ble Minister for Mahila Kalyan, Bal Vikas and Pushtahar, Government of Uttar Pradesh stated that “During the time of the coronavirus pandemic, along with other medicines, the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) also played a significant role in boosting people's immunity.”

Smt. Leena Johari IAS, Principal Secretary, Government of Uttar Pradesh, while addressing the event, highlighted and underscored the critical role of research and education in validating Ayush, emphasizing state support for its viability as a medical alternative. With provisions in the state budget for research and education in Ayurveda, Unani, and Homeopathy, Ayush is poised for advancement. Integration with modern medicine and mapping dispensaries reflect Ayush's commitment to holistic well-being. Together, these efforts pave the way for a healthier future

Shri B.K Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, while highlighting the importance of the Ayush system, emphasized the traditional medicine's global recognition in forums like G20 and BRICS " India leads in integrating traditional and modern medicine, fostering holistic wellness. This conference showcases India's dedication to advancing research and innovation in traditional medicine."

The event began with a warm welcome address by Shri Arvind Varchaswi, Co-Chair, FICCI Ayush Committee; Managing Director, Sri Sri Tattva, while addressing the event, said “Ayush's global recognition underscores its enduring significance. With representation from 60+ countries, industry and government commitment ensure quality and research advancement. Embrace Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy for holistic well-being.".

Dr. Pradeep Multani, Chair, FICCI Ayush Committee; Chairman, Multani Pharmaceuticals, delivered the vote of thanks and wished the exhibition success.

During the event's inaugural session, a significant milestone was achieved with the Unveiling of the Report, IndieExport (Compliance Roadmap for T&CM Exports) & Ayush Works (A Compendium of Scientific Evidence) Volume I.

The release of the report IndieExport touches up ‘The "Compliance Roadmap for T&CM Exports" and showcases Indian Ayush exports' remarkable growth, exceeding $1.24 billion in the last two years. Driven by global interest in holistic wellness and India's proactive promotion, this reflects increasing recognition worldwide. Key importers like the US, EU, and UAE demonstrate diverse global demand, with emerging markets such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mauritius contributing significantly. With the global T&CM market projected to reach $694 billion by 2030, there's immense potential for Ayush and others. Governments and research institutions invest in integrating ancient practices with modern evidence, ensuring Ayush's continued global growth and acceptance.’ 

Followed by the release of the book titled “Ayush Works” which highlights the rapid growth of India's Ayush industry, valued at USD 18.1 billion in 2020 and projected to reach $66 billion by 2025. Supported by increasing awareness and government backing, Ayush practices like Ayurveda and Yoga are being scientifically validated, paving the way for their integration with modern medicine and new drug discoveries. This growth trajectory underscores Ayush's potential to make a significant impact on global health and well-being.

The 3rd International Exhibition and Conference on Ayish and Wellness kicked off its inaugural day with insightful addresses and discussions, bringing together eminent personalities from the Ayush sector and beyond. The event aims to explore the challenges and opportunities within the AYUSH sector, foster global collaborations, and promote regulatory harmonization for strengthening global governance in traditional medicine practices. 

The initial session held in the morning, titled Ayush Nutrition (Ayurveda Aahar): Fostering Holistic Health and Wellness, explored the impact of Ayush Nutrition on overall well-being. 

Through various discussions and presentations, attendees gained insights into Ayurveda Aahar and its significance in enhancing health and wellness.

The subsequent session, Global Perspective – Regulatory Harmonization for Strengthening Global Governance, brought together high-level policymakers, government officials, and private sector representatives from India and other countries. The session aimed to align and standardize regulations and policies within the AYUSH sector globally, fostering collaboration and investment opportunities.

Concluding the series of insightful discussions, CEO's Roundtable focused on exploring challenges and opportunities within the AYUSH sector. The session provided a platform for CEOs and leaders within the AYUSH sector to engage in discussions covering various aspects such as research and development, regulatory frameworks, market expansion strategies, and consumer awareness.

The inaugural session marked the end of the first day of the event, with the dignitaries participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and curated visits to the stalls and Exhibition