India's Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine

India's Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine

India has pledged over $300 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) for its initiatives from 2025 to 2028, making it the largest contributor in Southeast Asia. A significant portion of this contribution, approximately $250 million, is designated for establishing a Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

What is the Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine?

This new global center, backed by both India and the WHO, aims to promote the safe and effective use of traditional medicine worldwide. It will serve as a hub for research, standardization, and capacity building.

Why Invest in Traditional Medicine?

• Rich Heritage: India boasts a rich legacy of traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH).
• Growing Global Interest: There is a rising interest in traditional medicine as viable options for health and wellness.
• Accessible Healthcare: Traditional medicine provides affordable healthcare solutions, especially for underserved populations.
• Scientific Validation: The center aims to scientifically validate various traditional medicine practices and products.

Functions of the Centre of Excellence

• Research: Conduct studies to assess the safety and effectiveness of traditional medicine.
• Standardization: Develop quality standards and guidelines for traditional medicine practices and products.
• Capacity Building: Train healthcare professionals in integrating traditional medicine into mainstream systems.
• Data Collection: Gather evidence regarding the benefits, risks, and best practices of traditional medicine.

Importance of the Centre

• Global Hub: It will become a central point for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration in traditional medicine.
• Bridging Gaps: The center will bridge the divide between traditional medicine and modern science, strengthening holistic healthcare.
• Promoting Safety: By developing standards, it will ensure the safe use of traditional medicine.
• Expanding Access: The center will help broaden access to traditional medicine, particularly in developing nations.

Benefits to Global Health

• New Treatments: It may lead to the discovery of innovative treatments inspired by traditional medicine.
• Integrated Healthcare: The initiative encourages the amalgamation of traditional medicine into existing healthcare frameworks.
• Improved Outcomes: A wider array of healthcare options can lead to better health outcomes.
• Cultural Exchange: It promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing among different traditional medicine systems globally.

Conclusion

India is taking a proactive stance in promoting traditional medicine worldwide through the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This center aims to merge traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches, enhancing the safe and effective use of traditional medicine for improved global health outcomes. This initiative underscores India’s rich heritage in traditional medicine and its commitment to advancing global health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of the Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine?
Answer: The Centre of Excellence aims to promote the safe and effective use of traditional medicine globally by conducting research, standardizing practices, and training healthcare professionals.

Q2. How much is India contributing to the WHO for traditional medicine?
Answer: India has pledged over $300 million to the WHO, with $250 million specifically allocated for establishing the Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine.

Q3. What traditional medicine systems will the center focus on?
Answer: The center will emphasize Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, collectively known as AYUSH, reflecting India's rich heritage.

Q4. Why is traditional medicine gaining global interest?
Answer: There is growing recognition of traditional medicine as affordable and accessible healthcare options, especially in underserved communities, contributing to its popularity.

Q5. How will the Centre of Excellence impact global health?
Answer: The center will facilitate the discovery of new treatments, improve health outcomes, and promote cultural exchange through collaboration among various traditional medicine systems.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main focus of the Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine?
A) Promoting modern medical practices
B) Supporting traditional medicine research
C) Training only Ayurvedic practitioners
D) Establishing hospitals
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How much funding has India pledged to the WHO for traditional medicine initiatives?
A) $150 million
B) $200 million
C) $250 million
D) $300 million
Correct Answer: D

Question 3: Which of the following is NOT a focus of the Centre of Excellence?
A) Standardization of practices
B) Scientific validation
C) Political lobbying
D) Capacity building
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What traditional medicine systems are included under AYUSH?
A) Homeopathy and Allopathy
B) Ayurveda and Siddha
C) Yoga and Nutrition
D) Only Ayurveda
Correct Answer: B