Ayush 2024: A Landmark Year for Global Traditional Medicine and Wellness
From integrating Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide to forging key agreements with international organizations, Ayush has strengthened India’s leadership in wellness.
A major highlight of the year was the inclusion of traditional medicine in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) by the World Health Organization (WHO).
This effort, which encompasses terminology and data from Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani Medicine, has enhanced the scope for Ayush-based research, policy-making, and healthcare delivery, positioning India at the forefront of holistic health practices.
The year began with a successful Surya Namaskar program from January 1 to 14, drawing nationwide participation to raise awareness of yoga’s benefits. Gujarat set a Guinness World Record for Surya Namaskar, leading to similar programs being organized at 19 major Sun Temples across the country.
Ayush’s presence at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit and National Arogya Fairs in Mumbai and Delhi showcased India’s traditional medicine’s potential to contribute to global health trends.
At the Bharat Parv 2024, Ayush activities, including yoga demonstrations and free OPDs, attracted substantial attention.
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy (CRIYN) in Jhajjar, Haryana, reflecting the government’s dedication to advancing yoga and naturopathy.
The inauguration of the Ayush Holistic Wellness Centre at the Supreme Court of India was another landmark, aiming to bring traditional wellness practices into mainstream institutions.
Collaborations between the Ministry of Ayush and international organizations also flourished.
An MoU with the Ministry of Women and Child Development was signed to improve adolescent nutrition through Ayurveda interventions.
Additionally, partnerships with countries like Zimbabwe, Vietnam, and Malaysia boosted the global footprint of Indian traditional medicine.
On Unani Day 2024, medicines and e-books were released, furthering Unani’s reach. The Ministry also signed an MoU with the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) to enhance Ayush service sectors.
Ayush’s global diplomacy was highlighted by the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre agreement in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This 10-year, $85 million collaboration with WHO strengthens India’s role as a global leader in traditional medicine.
International Day of Yoga 2024 saw record participation with over 24.53 crore people involved, further promoting the importance of yoga for personal and societal well-being.
The Ministry’s achievements in 2024 culminated in its participation in World Food India, where the Ayush Pavilion demonstrated the significant role of Ayurveda in modern nutrition.
The year’s events reflect the Ministry of Ayush’s ongoing commitment to promoting holistic health, advancing research, and fostering global cooperation in traditional medicine.
