How is India Reinforcing Ayush Innovation in Global Health at the Arctic Circle Assembly?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's commitment to Ayush integration in global health.
- Significance of traditional medicine in modern health challenges.
- Plans for clinical trials and research collaborations in the Arctic.
- Focus on scientific evidence bridging traditional and modern practices.
- Engagement in global sustainability dialogues.
New Delhi, Oct 17 (NationPress) India has reiterated its dedication to integrating Ayush-based innovation into global health during the Arctic Circle Assembly 2025, as stated by the Ministry of Ayush on Friday.
The delegation from India, headed by Prof. (Vaidya) Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), along with Dr. Srinivas Rao Chinta, Joint Advisor (Homoeopathy), Ministry of Ayush, actively participated in the 2025 Assembly in Reykjavík, Iceland.
In the plenary session titled “The Role and Importance of the Global South in the Arctic,” Acharya showcased India’s proactive involvement in the Arctic region in line with its comprehensive Arctic Policy.
He stressed the increasing significance of traditional medical systems in tackling global health issues and underscored the potential of Ayush interventions to promote wellness and resilience even in challenging ecosystems like the Arctic.
“The participation of the Ministry of Ayush delegation highlights India’s commitment to incorporating Ayush-based evidence, innovation, and diplomacy into global sustainability and health discussions,” an official statement from the ministry indicated.
“This engagement reinforces India’s role as a responsible stakeholder advocating for holistic wellness, scientific collaboration, and people-to-people partnerships within its Arctic Policy framework,” the statement further elaborated.
Furthermore, Acharya laid out a visionary plan to boost collaboration between traditional knowledge systems and Arctic research.
He suggested initiating transdisciplinary proof-of-concept clinical trials in Arctic environments, forming a joint research consortium under the Arctic policy framework, and enhancing capacity for cross-cultural Ayush delivery and safety monitoring.
The expert also highlighted the need for publishing solid scientific evidence to connect traditional and modern medicine, advocating for the incorporation of Ayush awareness in India’s Arctic diplomatic efforts.
The Arctic Circle Assembly is recognized as the world’s largest annual event focused on Arctic and global issues, attracting over 2,000 participants including state leaders, policymakers, scientists, environmentalists, indigenous leaders, business executives, and civil society members to address the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the Arctic region.