In News:

The Government of India has officially fixed September 23 as Ayurveda Day, replacing the earlier practice of celebrating it on Dhanteras, which follows a variable lunar calendar. This change, notified through a Gazette notification in March 2025, aims to bring uniformity and global visibility to Ayurveda observance.

About Ayurveda Day:

• Purpose:Ayurveda Day is observed to honour India’s ancient medicinal heritage and promote Ayurveda as a scientific, evidence-based, and holistic healthcare system rooted in preventive and sustainable wellness practices.
• New Fixed Date:Starting 2025, Ayurveda Day will be celebrated every year on 23rd September, coinciding with the autumnal equinox, a day when day and night are nearly equal, symbolizing balance—a core concept in Ayurvedic philosophy.
• Why the Shift?The previous observance on Dhanteras created logistical challenges due to its annual date fluctuation (between mid-October and mid-November). The new fixed date allows for better planning and consistent global celebrations.
• Symbolism of Autumnal Equinox:The equinox represents cosmic balance and harmony, aligning with Ayurveda’s emphasis on equilibrium between mind, body, spirit, and environment.

Ayurveda: Key Facts for UPSC

• Definition:Ayurveda, meaning the “Science of Life” (from Sanskrit Ayu = life, Veda = knowledge), is a traditional Indian medical system dating back over 5,000 years, with roots in the Atharva Veda.
• Core Principles:
  • SwasthasyaSwasthyaRakshanam: Maintaining the health of the healthy
  • AturasyaVikaraPrashamanam: Treating diseases in the sick
  • Emphasis on natural healing, diet, seasonal routines, and mind-body balance
• Key Features:
  • Focus on preventive healthcare
  • Use of herbal medicines, detox therapies, yoga, and meditation
  • Personalised treatment based on individual constitution (Prakriti)

Significance for Global Health:

The Ministry of AYUSH envisions Ayurveda Day as a global platform to promote India’s traditional knowledge system as a part of the international wellness movement. Health professionals, researchers, academic institutions, and global partners are encouraged to participate in its observance to integrate Ayurveda into broader healthcare dialogues.

In News:

Celebrated on 29th October 2024, marking the 9th Ayurveda Day, with the theme “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health”.

• Global Participation: Over 150 countries participating, reflecting Ayurveda's growing global influence.
• Venue: Major events held at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

Significance of Ayurveda and its Global Outreach

• Ancient System: Ayurveda is one of the oldest healthcare systems, focusing on holistic well-being, rooted in Vedic traditions, and dating back over 5,000 years.
• Global Recognition: Recognized in 24 countries and Ayurveda products exported to over 100 countries.
• International Cooperation: Collaborative efforts through forums like BRICS, SCO, BIMSTEC, and WHO to integrate Ayurveda into global health policies.

Role of Dhanvantri in Ayurveda Day

• Dhanvantari Jayanti: Ayurveda Day coincides with Dhanteras, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantri, considered the divine physician.
• Cultural & Religious Significance: Worshiped for promoting health and longevity, Dhanvantri symbolizes the healing powers of Ayurveda.

Innovations and Relevance of Ayurveda

• Research and Innovation: The theme emphasizes scientific advancements in Ayurveda to address global health challenges such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and geriatric care.
• Startup Ecosystem: Focus on fostering innovation through Ayurveda startups, particularly in the North Eastern states and across India.

Ayurveda’s Role in Addressing Global Health Issues

• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Ayurveda offers preventive and holistic treatment for diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions.
• Mental Health: Ayurveda promotes balance in the mind, body, and spirit, with methods addressing stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Emphasizing traditional medicinal plants and natural remedies to combat resistance to antibiotics.
• Geriatric Health: Ayurveda's role in managing aging and enhancing quality of life through rejuvenation therapies.

Focus Areas for Ayurveda Innovation

• Women’s Health: Developing Ayurvedic solutions tailored for women's health issues, including reproductive health and hormonal balance.
• Workplace Wellness: Integrating Ayurveda in workplace settings to improve mental and physical health.
• School Wellness Programs: Promoting Ayurvedic practices in schools to boost immunity and overall health of children.
• Food Innovation: Modernizing Ayurvedic dietary concepts, focusing on nutritional balance and preventive health.

Government Initiatives and Digital Transformation

• Ayush Digital Platforms: Initiatives like Ayush Grid, Ayurgyan Scheme, Ayush Research Portal, and Namaste Portal are enhancing accessibility to Ayurvedic knowledge.
• WHO Integration: Ayurveda's inclusion in the WHO ICD-11 Traditional Medicine Module facilitates global standardization and recognition.
• I Support Ayurveda Campaign: A public awareness campaign aiming to garner over 250 million votes in support of Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic Education and Research

• Research Centers: Government-supported centers like the Research Centre for Innovation in Ayurveda Biology and WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre advancing Ayurveda's global integration.
• Academic Contributions: Institutes like National Institute of Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, and North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homeopathy are leading innovation and education in Ayurveda.

Ayurveda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Ayurveda contributes significantly to public health, with a focus on preventive care and holistic health.
• Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Ayurveda supports affordable, accessible healthcare solutions, complementing the global health agenda.