India officially began the countdown to the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, with the Ministry of Ayush hosting a Curtain Raiser Press Conference at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. The Summit, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Ayush, will take place from 17–19 December 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and experts from more than 100 countries.
“India Leads the World in Restoring Balance Through Traditional Medicine”: Shri Prataprao Jadhav
Union Minister of State (IC) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, expressed pride in India hosting the Summit, following the success of the first edition held in Gujarat in 2023. He stated that the event represents a major global milestone in mainstreaming traditional medicine for human health, happiness, and well-being, aligned with India’s civilizational ethos — “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah.”
The Minister announced the theme of the Summit:
“Restoring Balance: The Science and Practice of Health and Well-Being.”
He emphasized India’s global leadership in traditional medicine, noting the rising recognition of Ayush systems — Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy — as trusted solutions for preventive, promotive, and holistic healthcare.
Dedicated Side Event on Ashwagandha: Bridging Tradition and Evidence
Shri Jadhav announced that the Ministry of Ayush will host a special side event on Ashwagandha, one of India’s most globally researched medicinal plants. The session will highlight:
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Traditional Ayurvedic knowledge
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Modern pharmacological and clinical evidence
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Its adaptogenic, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties
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Emerging global market opportunities
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Safety and regulatory considerations
The event, titled “Ashwagandha: From Traditional Wisdom to Global Impact”, will be held from 17–19 December in partnership with the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC), Jamnagar.
“Summit to Drive Evidence-Based Integration”: Dr. Poonam Khetrapal
Dr. Poonam Khetrapal, Regional Director Emeritus of WHO South-East Asia Region and Senior Advisor on Traditional Medicine to the WHO Director-General, emphasized that the Summit marks a significant moment in global health cooperation.
She stated that participation from over 100 countries will help shape a decade-long roadmap for:
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Evidence-based integration of traditional and integrative medicine
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Strengthening research, regulatory frameworks, and safety standards
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Advancing biodiversity conservation and equitable benefit-sharing
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Expanding digital health innovations in traditional medicine
Dr. Khetrapal highlighted that billions worldwide rely on traditional medicine and stressed the urgent need to bridge evidence gaps through rigorous science, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.
India–WHO Collaboration Strengthens Global Traditional Medicine Agenda
Shri Jadhav noted that the establishment of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar reflects growing international confidence in India’s knowledge systems.
He appreciated WHO’s partnership and acknowledged the significant role of media in generating awareness and promoting trust in traditional and integrative medicine.
Senior officials present on the dais included:
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Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
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Shri Dhirendra Ojha, Principal Director General, PIB
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Ms. Alarmelmangai D, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
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Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
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Shri Satyajit Paul, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Ayush
The event also saw participation from senior officials, health experts, and media representatives.
Global Delegations Prepare for High-Level Summit
The 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine will feature:
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Ministerial roundtables
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Scientific plenaries
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Innovation showcases
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Policy dialogues on integrative health
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Discussions on digital health, biodiversity protection, and sustainable supply chains
The Summit follows the Ambassadors’ Reception (9–10 November 2025), where diplomats were briefed on India’s leadership role and the global significance of the event.
Conclusion
With the commencement of the countdown to the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, India reaffirms its commitment to advancing holistic, integrative, and sustainable healthcare. The Summit is expected to deliver landmark outcomes that will shape global health policies, support scientific validation of traditional practices, and strengthen international cooperation for years to come.
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Source: PIB
