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"Ayurveda Proved its Power During Covid Pandemic": Uttarakhand Gears Up for World Ayurveda Congress

Hosted by the World Ayurveda Foundation (WAF), Vigyan Bharti, and the Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, the four-day event aims to integrate Ayurveda with modern technology while promoting wellness tourism.

• By Pooja Chaturvedi Sah
• New Delhi
• Dec 11, 2024

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The 10th edition of the World Ayurveda Congress (WAC) & Arogya Expo 2024, themed “Digital Health – An Ayurveda Perspective,” will commence in Dehradun on December 12, promising to attract over 6,500 delegates and 300 international participants from 58 countries. 

Hosted by the World Ayurveda Foundation (WAF), Vigyan Bharti, and the Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, the four-day event aims to integrate Ayurveda with modern technology while promoting wellness tourism. 

At the curtain raiser in Dehradun on Monday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the state’s leadership in traditional wellness practices, calling Uttarakhand the “land of Yoga and AYUSH.” Dhami also announced plans for India’s first Yoga Niti (Yoga Policy) to further the state’s role in promoting ancient practices. “Uttarakhand has been a hub of Ayurveda and wisdom since ancient times,” Dhami said. “This global event will foster discussions that will guide Ayurveda’s growth in India and across the world. It will spread the message of Sarve Santu Niramayah (May all be free of illness).” 

Event Highlights 

The Congress will be held at Dehradun’s Parade Grounds and Smart City Grounds, featuring over 200 scientific sessions, AYUSH clinics, and an exhibition with more than 100 industry players and startups. A buyer-seller meet is also planned to facilitate trade and collaborations in Ayurveda. 

Ravinath Raman, Secretary of AYUSH and AYUSH Education, revealed that Uttarakhand’s pavilion would include eight state departments, including health, tourism, and rural development, showcasing the state as a hub for Ayurveda and wellness tourism. “This event will raise awareness about Ayurveda’s benefits, foster research collaborations, and create business opportunities, contributing to the progress of the AYUSH sector,” he said. 

The Congress will also emphasize the integration of Ayurveda with modern advancements like artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and digital connectivity. 

Boost to State’s Wellness Ecosystem 

Chief Minister Dhami underlined the efficiency of Ayurveda during the COVID-19 pandemic, stating, “The world witnessed the impact of Ayurveda and Yoga when modern medicine faced limitations.” He added that telemedicine, Panchkarma, and Marma Chikitsa facilities are now available at all AYUSH hospitals in the state, with over 150 institutions receiving NABH accreditation. 

Additionally, Dhami noted that the construction of three 50-bed AYUSH hospitals is underway in Tehri, Kotdwar, and Tanakpur, and 300 AYUSH-based Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established. 

Organizing Committees at Work 

Shiv Kumar, National Organization Secretary of Vigyan Bharti, emphasized the importance of seamless coordination among various organizing committees to ensure the event’s success. “This international conference will play a pivotal role in promoting Ayurvedic science globally,” he said. 

Experts and academics from across India are expected to present research papers and deliver lectures at the Congress. Professor KD Purohit, President of Uttarakhand Vigyan Bharti, added, “This event will be a milestone in promoting study and research in Ayurveda, elevating Uttarakhand as a center of wellness and intellectual discourse.” 

The Congress, supported by the Ministry of AYUSH, marks a significant step toward integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems and strengthening Ayurveda’s global presence.