Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 493/19

4TH NATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY

Along with the rest of the country, the Directorate of AYUSH, Meghalaya today celebrated the 4th National Ayurveda Day on the theme Ayurveda for Longevity at Hotel Majestic, Shillong wherein the Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Shri. A L Hek was the Chief Guest. Present on the occasion were Shri. P Bakshi, Secretary Health & Family Welfare cum Director of AYUSH, Meghalaya, Ayurvedic Physicians and Ayurvedic Medical Officers from across the State. The National Ayurveda Day is celebrated every year on the occasion of Dhanwantari Jayanti (Dhanteras). This year Ayurveda Day is being observed on 25th October, 2019.

The Minister in his speech said that Ayurveda is perceived as one of the most ancient and well documented system of medicine which is equally relevant in modern times. He said that the Government is trying to make an attempt to promote Ayurveda into mainstream and is committed to reduce the burden of disease and related morbidity and mortality by utilizing the potential of Ayurveda. Stating that the aim of Ayurveda is to prevent disease and promote the health and wellbeing of the people, the Minister said that nature is a pharmacy and we have the tools and science to tackle the burden of diseases and therefore it is time for us to take traditional medicines to new heights. With its bountiful medicinal plants and herbs, Meghalaya has become a hub for health and wellness centres so we should make an effort to create a sense of awareness in today's generation and promote Ayurvedic principles of healing in society.

Shri Bakshi, in his speech said that the main purpose of a healthy lifestyle is to lead a vibrant life for as long as possible. Good nutrition and healthy habits help in contributing to this. He also said that health, beauty and wellness centres and well known cosmetics brands are leaning heavily towards pure ayurveda products and Indian system of medicines and herbs. He said that the government is making an effort to take advantage of the flagship Health Programmes of the Government of India that have set aside packages for traditional medicines and to explore the potential of Ayurveda to contribute towards National health policy & National Health programmes. Dr. Gaurav Soni of NEIAH, Shillong, Dr. W Nonglait, Dr. S Dkhar, Dr. J Langstang, Ayurvedic Medical Officers gave a presentation relating to Ayurvedic Medicines.