New Delhi: The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, inaugurated a two-day National Symposium titled “Pharmacovigilance – Shishu Suraksha: Rashtra Suraksha (Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child – Strengthening Pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda)” on September 18, 2025. The event took place at the LNIPES, Gwalior, in collaboration with the National Pharmacovigilance Coordination Centre for ASU&H Drugs, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, to mark World Patient Safety Day 2025.
Symposium Inauguration and Dignitaries
The symposium was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) B.L. Mehra, Chairman of NCISM, New Delhi, as the Chief Guest. Key dignitaries included Prof. (Dr.) Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General of CCRAS; Dr. N. Srikanth, Deputy DG of CCRAS; Prof. Galib R. from AIIA; Prof. Bejon Kumar Mishra from the Ministry of Ayush; Prof. Umesh Shukla of Govt. Ayurveda College, Bhopal; Dr. B.S. Sisodia, In-charge of RARI Gwalior; and Dr. Anil Mangal, Organizing Secretary. A commemorative souvenir was also released during the event.
Focus on Pediatric Pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda
In his inaugural address, Prof. (Dr.) B.L. Mehra praised CCRAS and RARI Gwalior for selecting the timely and critical theme, emphasizing that pharmacovigilance is vital for patient safety in AYUSH systems, particularly for children. Prof. (Dr.) Rabinarayan Acharya highlighted the history and significance of pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda, urging participants to maintain vigilance in monitoring and reporting Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs). Dr. N. Srikanth stressed pediatric safety as both a responsibility and moral obligation. Prof. Bejon Kumar Mishra spoke on patient rights and transparency in healthcare, while Prof. Umesh Shukla commended the focus on pediatric drug safety, an often-overlooked area.
Symposium Activities and Research Presentations
The symposium was notable for being the first to receive NCISM-approved CME credit scores, with this announcement made in the presence of Prof. Sushrut and State Ayush Registration Board representatives. Over eight scientific sessions, more than 28 research papers and 31 posters related to pharmacovigilance in child health and Ayurveda practice were presented by postgraduate and doctoral scholars, research officers, and faculty. Eminent experts including Prof. Vikash Medhi (PGI Chandigarh), Prof. Ravi Ambey (GMRC), Prof. Rajagopal (AIIA New Delhi), and Prof. Sudipt Rath (NIA Jaipur) contributed valuable insights.
Emphasizing Safe Drug Practices and Patient Safety
The symposium underscored the importance of safe drug use, timely reporting of ADRs, and vigilance in pediatric care, reinforcing the theme “Shishu Suraksha: Rashtra Suraksha.” More than 150 Ayurveda physicians, research scholars, and faculty members from across India participated, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing patient safety and quality care.
Conclusion
The National Symposium on Pharmacovigilance highlights a critical step toward safeguarding child health within Ayurveda and ASU&H practices. By engaging healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers, the event strengthens pharmacovigilance frameworks essential for protecting newborns and children, thereby contributing to the broader goals of patient safety in India.
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Source: PIB
