Ayurveda Can Bridge Gap Between Modern Medicine and Nature, Says Health Minister

SRINAGAR: Ayurveda has the potential to bridge the widening gap between modern medicine and natural healing, JK Health Minister Sakeena Itoo said on Tuesday.

Emphasising the theme “Ayurveda for People and Planet”, the Minister said the ancient system embodies harmony between human health and the environment, offering a sustainable model of care at a time when lifestyle disorders and climate-related illnesses are on the rise. “Its principles remind us that personal well-being and ecological well-being are inseparable,” she remarked.

Calling for a dedicated awareness campaign, Itoo urged officials, practitioners and civil society to take Ayurveda to every household in Jammu and Kashmir. She underlined that Ayurvedic medicines, with fewer side effects than conventional drugs, must become a viable choice for common people.

Senior officers present at the event echoed her views. Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, described Ayush as effective against lifestyle disorders, while Health Secretary Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah stressed research, validation and global standardisation to expand Ayurveda’s credibility.

Director Ayush, JK, Dr Suresh Kumar Sharma, highlighted departmental initiatives, including Ayush health and wellness centres, herbal outreach campaigns and integrative healthcare projects. He said the focus should now shift from curative measures to preventive healthcare.

The celebrations drew over 700 participants, including medical professionals, students and members of the public. Cultural performances, expert lectures and 15 interactive stalls on therapies, medicinal plants, yoga and traditional practices provided hands-on experience to visitors.

Officials concluded that Ayurveda, if promoted widely, could emerge as a vital complement to modern medicine and a global response to the growing healthcare crisis.