8th National Ayurveda Day: Celebrating 'Ayurveda for One Health' in India

NEW DELHI: In a curtain-raiser press conference held at the media center in Delhi, Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced a month-long celebration drive for the 8th National Ayurveda Day in India. This annual event, celebrated across the country, pays homage to Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda.

During the press conference, Minister Sonowal highlighted the importance of Ayurveda and the theme for this year's celebration - 'Ayurveda for One Health.' This theme aligns with India's G20 Presidency theme of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and ecosystems. The focus is on the human-animal-plant-environment interface, promoting holistic health and well-being for all.

The Union Minister emphasized a comprehensive approach to this year's celebrations, stressing the need for "Jan Sandesh, Jan Bhagidhari, and Jan Andolan for Jan Arogya," which translates to a public message, public participation, and a public movement for public health through Ayurveda.

Sonowal stated, "The Ministry of Ayush intends to explore the potential of Ayurveda in promoting the well-being of not only human beings but also the environment, plants, animals, and more. Therefore, the theme chosen is 'Ayurveda for One Health.'"

The month-long celebration, set to sensitize students, farmers, and the public to the benefits of Ayurveda, encompasses a wide range of activities. This year, Ayurveda Day falls on November 10, 2023, and the Ministry of Ayush has chosen the theme to address various health issues through Ayurveda.

The Union Minister further elucidated the multifaceted approach, focusing on promoting Agro-Ayurveda, empowering individuals to participate in their own health, and encouraging professionals to harness Ayurveda's potential. The campaign includes areas such as sustainable agriculture, human, animal, plant, forest, and aquaculture health, and food safety.

Sarbananda Sonowal underlined three key areas of focus: Ayurveda for Farmers, Ayurveda for Students, and Ayurveda for the Public. This inclusive approach aims to reach people across diverse sectors and communities.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, shared that over 12,500 Ayush Health & Wellness Centers have been approved under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), with more than 8,000 already operational. The Ayurveda campaign will feature an array of events, including exhibitions, research studies, medical camps, public awareness lectures, and competitions to popularize Ayurveda among the general public.

The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science (CCRAS), a part of the Ministry of Ayush, will coordinate the Ayurveda Day programs in 2023. With 30 units spread across the country, CCRAS plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this national celebration, underlining Ayurveda's significance in promoting holistic well-being and the principle of "One Health."

ALSO READ: Guwahati: City Police Seize Counterfeit Currency; Suspect Apprehended

ALSO WATCH: