A first-of-its-kind two-day global summit on traditional medicines is all set to kick off in Gujarat from August 17 where experts from across the world will dwell into the latest scientific advancements in the sector with the ultimate goal of ensuring health for all.
Speaking about the event which is being jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Ayush and the WHO, Union Minister of State for Ayush Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai said the meet will take into account the vast experience and expertise of the country and serve as a platform for experts and practitioners to delve into the latest scientific advancements and evidence-based knowledge in the sector, with the ultimate goal of ensuring health and well-being for all.
He said the summit's outcome will be a declaration, which will assist WHO in shaping the future of its global centre for traditional medicine.
"By blending traditional practices with contemporary practices aided by visionary policies and digital initiatives, India has demonstrated a path for achieving universal health coverage (UHIC) through traditional medicine systems," he added.
Manoj Jhalani, Director, Department of Health Systems Development, WHO South East Asia Regional Centre, stated that the summit is expected to develop a roadmap toward creating a more holistic and healthier world for future generations by recognizing the interconnectedness between human health, planetary harmony, and technological advancement.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will inaugurate the event in the presence of Union Minister of Health Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal.
G20 health ministers, regional directors of WHO and eminent invitees from countries across WHO's six regions are expected to attend the event along with scientists, practitioners of traditional medicine, health workers and members of civil society organisations.
An array of distinguished speakers will be spearheading discussions on key focus areas -- research, evidence and learning: policy, data and regulation; innovation and digital health; and biodiversity, equity and traditional (healthcare) knowledge.