Experts and researchers at the National Conference on Naturopathy–2026, held on 5–6 February 2026, underscored the growing importance of evidence-based integration of Yoga and Naturopathy in preventive, promotive, and rehabilitative healthcare. The two-day conference was jointly organised by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) and the Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN) under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, bringing together leading voices from medicine, research, and public health.
Theme Focus: “Yoga and Naturopathy for a Stronger and Healthier You”
The main theme of the conference, “Yoga and Naturopathy for a Stronger and Healthier You,” was complemented by the sub-theme “SamYog,” which aims to build a shared knowledge platform for integrating Ayush systems with modern medicine for public health interventions.
In a video message, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, highlighted that improved health outcomes have been achieved through the integration of Ayush practices. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting research in traditional systems of medicine and expanding public awareness.
Inaugural Session: Global Reach of Yoga and Integrative Healthcare Vision
The inaugural session was presided over by Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, who emphasised that Yoga and Naturopathy complement each other in building a sustainable healthcare model. She also expressed pride in the global success of the International Day of Yoga, now celebrated in 190 countries in 2026. Referring to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” as a core Indian philosophy, she stressed the need for a holistic and integrative approach to healthcare.
Academic Deliberations: “Yog Samyog” and Scientific Research
The academic segment titled “Yog Samyog” focused on the theme “Yoga Research: Past, Present & Future,” bringing together experts to discuss scientific developments in Yoga research.
The first session, chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY, featured a keynote address by Dr. Vishwas Mandalik, Director, Yoga Vidya Gurukul, Nashik, on Yoga Nidra as Psychotherapy. He illustrated the therapeutic benefits of Yoga Nidra in managing conditions such as obesity, spinal disorders, and insomnia.
In the same session, Dr. Satish D. Pathak, Assistant Director of Scientific Research at Kaivalyadhama, shared findings from Yoga research, highlighting that diabetes, a rapidly rising lifestyle disorder, can be effectively managed through early diagnosis, balanced lifestyle practices, Yoga, and natural therapies.
Strengthening the Scientific Foundation of Yoga and Naturopathy
The event was also graced by Shri Amarendra Singh, Director (Yoga & Naturopathy), Ministry of Ayush, and Additional In-Charge Director, National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), Pune. He emphasised the importance of research, education, and public outreach in strengthening the scientific credibility and wider acceptance of Yoga and Naturopathy.
The second session featured a special keynote lecture by Dr. Ramesh Bijlani, Former Professor, Department of Physiology, AIIMS, New Delhi, who spoke on impactful Yoga research for healthcare. He stressed the need for continuous, robust, and scientifically validated research to further enhance Yoga’s role in modern healthcare.
Research Presentations on Women’s Health and Lifestyle Disorders
The third session, chaired by Dr. Jagdish Prasad, included research presentations on women’s health, lifestyle disorders, advancements in Yoga therapy, and the neuro-physiological aspects of meditation and sleep, reflecting the deepening integration of Yoga with modern medical science.
Notable presenters included Dr. Sudha Prasad (Maulana Azad Medical College), Prof. Asha Gandhi (Lady Hardinge Medical College), Prof. (Dr.) Rudra Bhandari (Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun), and Dr. Ravindra P. N. (NIMHANS, Bengaluru).
Valedictory Session and Key Takeaways
At the valedictory session, Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi expressed gratitude to all participants and speakers for their contributions. The discussions across plenary sessions strongly emphasised evidence-based practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and structured integration of Yoga and Naturopathy to strengthen healthcare delivery.
Conclusion
The National Conference on Naturopathy–2026 successfully facilitated knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and collaborative engagement among experts and institutions. The event reaffirmed the Government of India’s vision of promoting integrative healthcare systems that combine traditional wisdom with modern science, paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future.
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Source: PIB
