Ayurveda Gains Global Traction Through Scientific Advancements

Ayurveda’s global significance is increasingly recognized, bolstered by scientific research and international partnerships, according to Dinesh Bhatia, the Indian Ambassador to Brazil. Speaking at the third International Ayurveda Conference, which took place in São Paulo on November 16-17, 2023, Bhatia noted the deepening collaboration between India and Brazil in traditional healthcare systems. The event, co-hosted by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and Conayur Sao Paulo, celebrated 40 years of Ayurveda’s presence in Brazil, bringing together experts, practitioners, scholars, and students from across Latin America and India.

The conference highlighted future initiatives, including the upcoming WHO-Ministry of Ayush Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi scheduled for December 17-19, 2023. Bhatia pointed to Brazil’s role as the first South American nation to officially recognize Ayurveda, calling attention to the recent visit by Brazil’s Vice President, Geraldo Alckmin, to the All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi as a significant step in enhancing bilateral cooperation.

In his remarks, Dr. (Vaidya) Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, emphasized the inclusive and compassionate nature of Ayurveda, which seeks to harmonize body, mind, and environment. He underscored the robust partnership between India and Brazil in traditional medicine, facilitated by a Memorandum of Understanding between their respective health ministries. This partnership is further strengthened through collaborative efforts involving the National Institute of Ayurveda in Jaipur and various Brazilian universities.

Dr. Kotecha praised the dedication of teachers, researchers, and practitioners who have contributed to the growth of Ayurveda in Brazil over the past four decades. On behalf of Union Minister of Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing evidence-based traditional medicine under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dr. Jyoti Kiran Shukla, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, highlighted the common heritage of wellness traditions shared by India and Brazil. She emphasized the role of the SVCC and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in promoting cultural and academic exchanges related to Ayurveda.

The Consul General of India in São Paulo, Hansraj Singh Verma, reinforced the importance of cooperation between India and Brazil in developing natural and preventive healthcare solutions. He noted that such collaborations are vital in addressing global health challenges.

The discussions at the conference will likely influence future efforts to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare practices, further enhancing Ayurveda’s global relevance.