Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 30 October 2024
The Ministry of Ayush celebrates Ayurveda Day every year on Dhanvantari Jayanti/Dhanteras. This year a month-long celebration was held from September 30 to October 29, 2024 to celebrate Ayurveda Day. In collaboration with various ministries and departments of the Government of India, the initiative aimed to raise awareness about the traditional Ayurvedic system of medicine among citizens nationwide.
This year’s theme emphasised Ayurveda’s potential to enhance global health through innovative practices and natural treatment methods. The celebration highlighted Ayurveda’s holistic approach to well-being, focusing on prevention, health promotion, and natural healing. Weekly events centered around themes such as Ayurveda and Women’s Health, Innovations and Entrepreneurship, Workplace Wellness, Wellness at Schools, and Ayurvedic Foods and Innovations.
In the Union Territory, the state function for the 9th Ayurveda Day took place at the Community Hall in Guptapara on October 29, 2024. The event was organized by the AYUSH Wing of the Directorate of Health Services and the A&N State AYUSH Society. Dr. Suja Antony, Director of Health Services, A&N Administration, served as the chief guest, while Mr. Prakash Adhikari, Member of the Zilla Parishad, was the guest of honour. Other local dignitaries, including Mr. Nirmal Sarkar, Panchayat Samiti Member, and Mr. Durlab Das, Pradhan of Guptapara village, also attended.
Dr. Kalyan P. Kadbhane, Deputy Director of AYUSH, welcomed the attendees, and the chief guest inaugurated an exhibition showcasing Ayurvedic medicinal plants, Panchakarma therapies, and healthy food recipes. A free Ayurveda medical camp was conducted for the public, providing access to AYUSH doctors and distributing free medicinal plants.
The event also recognised participants in various competitions held throughout the month, with certificates and cash prizes awarded by the distinguished guests. ASHA and Anganwadi workers showcased a variety of healthy recipes made from millets and natural ingredients.
At 12:30 PM, the speech of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi was webcasted live to the attendees. The program was coordinated by Dr. Rekha, Specialist in Panchakarma.
Additionally, the Prime Minister’s address and the inauguration of various projects and welfare schemes from the All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, were streamed at over 39 public locations and health institutions across the UT, engaging more than 2,500 participants in collaboration with other departments.