Welcome to ONLiNE UPSC

Celebrating Ashwagandha: A Stamp of India's Traditional Medicine

Highlighting the Role of Traditional Remedies in Modern Healthcare

Celebrating Ashwagandha: A Stamp of India's Traditional Medicine

  • 20 Dec, 2025
  • 411

A Commemorative Stamp for Ashwagandha

During the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative postal stamp featuring Ashwagandha, a renowned medicinal plant in India. This release symbolizes India's dedication to promoting traditional medicine while enhancing its global stature as a key player in holistic and preventive healthcare.

Significance of the Postal Stamp Release

The launch of a commemorative postal stamp serves both symbolic and educational functions. Postal stamps act as cultural ambassadors, helping spread awareness of a country's heritage and priorities. By showcasing Ashwagandha, India emphasizes the scientific and cultural significance of traditional medicinal plants.

This stamp also reinforces India's commitment to advancing AYUSH systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, on an international platform. It aligns with India's vision to integrate traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems.

About Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been a crucial medicinal herb in Ayurveda for centuries. It is celebrated for its ability to promote stress reduction, enhance immunity, and improve overall vitality and well-being. Often referred to as an "adaptogen," Ashwagandha assists the body in managing both physical and mental stress.

Recently, Ashwagandha has gained global recognition, especially within the wellness, nutraceutical, and integrative medicine markets, making it a fitting symbol of India's traditional healthcare legacy.

Background

India boasts a rich tradition of medicinal systems, particularly Ayurveda, which extensively utilizes medicinal plants and natural remedies. Over the last decade, India has proactively sought to globalize its traditional knowledge through institutions, international collaborations, and supportive policies.

Key Takeaways

  • A commemorative postal stamp on Ashwagandha was released in New Delhi.
  • The stamp was unveiled by PM Narendra Modi during the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine.
  • Ashwagandha is a vital Ayurvedic medicinal plant known for its stress-relief and immunity-boosting properties.
  • The stamp aims to promote India's traditional medicine heritage on a global scale.
  • This initiative supports the international outreach of AYUSH systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Ashwagandha?
Answer: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a medicinal herb used in Ayurveda, known for its adaptogenic properties that help reduce stress and enhance immunity.

Q2. Why was the Ashwagandha stamp released?
Answer: The stamp was released to promote India’s traditional medicine and highlight the importance of Ashwagandha in holistic healthcare during the WHO Global Summit.

Q3. What is the significance of the WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine?
Answer: The summit aims to promote and integrate traditional medicine into global health systems, highlighting its value in preventive healthcare.

Q4. How does Ashwagandha help in wellness?
Answer: Ashwagandha is known for its ability to reduce stress, boost immunity, and enhance overall vitality, making it a popular choice in wellness practices.

Q5. What are AYUSH systems?
Answer: AYUSH refers to Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, traditional systems of medicine in India that promote holistic health and wellness.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the commemorative stamp on Ashwagandha symbolize?
A) India's commitment to modern medicine
B) Promotion of traditional medicine globally
C) A new herbal product launch
D) An educational initiative
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who unveiled the Ashwagandha stamp at the WHO Summit?
A) Health Minister
B) President of India
C) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
D) Chief Minister of Delhi
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: Which system does Ashwagandha belong to?
A) Homeopathy
B) Ayurveda
C) Siddha
D) Unani
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the role of Ashwagandha as an adaptogen?
A) It enhances appetite
B) It helps manage stress
C) It promotes sleep
D) It increases energy
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is a key focus of the WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine?
A) Introducing new medicines
B) Integrating traditional medicine into health systems
C) Promoting only Western medicine
D) Launching pharmaceutical products
Correct Answer: B

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Kutos : AI Assistant!
Celebrating Ashwagandha: A Stamp of India's Traditional Medicine
Ask your questions below - no hesitation, I am here to support your learning.
View All
Subscription successful!