Context

• The contemporary world faces a convergence of crises, rising lifestyle diseases, ecological degradation, and social fragmentation, that challenge conventional models of health and development.
• In response, a global reorientation is underway, one that seeks to restore balance between individuals and the environment, progress and sustainability, and innovation and intuition.
• Central to this shift is the growing recognition of traditional medicine as a vital resource for holistic well-being.
• Far from being an antiquated practice, traditional medicine is increasingly supported by scientific research and global policy frameworks, positioning it as a key contributor to future health

The Philosophy of Holistic Health

• Health as Harmony
  • Traditional medicine systems across cultures share a foundational belief: true health emerges from harmony, within the body and between humans and nature.
  • Unlike purely biomedical models, which prioritise diagnosing and treating disease, traditional medicine emphasises prevention, balance, and lifestyle regulation.
• Rediscovering Ancient Knowledge
  • Although often framed as a modern innovation, the science of well-being is rooted in age-old practices.
  • Contemporary research increasingly validates traditional insights about the interconnections between physical, mental, and environmental health, reaffirming their relevance in today’s health landscape.

Global Relevance and Socioeconomic Value

• Widespread Use of Traditional Medicine
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that nearly 90% of its member states use traditional medicine in some form.
  • For billions of people, especially in low- and middle-income countries, these systems remain the first line of healthcare due to their accessibility, affordability, and cultural acceptance.
• Contributions Beyond Healthcare
  • Traditional medicine supports broader societal goals by contributing to:
    • Biodiversity conservation
    • Nutrition and food security
    • Livelihood generation
• This holistic impact demonstrates that traditional knowledge is not only a medical asset but also a pillar of sustainable development.

India as a Global Leader in Traditional Medicine

• Expanding the AYUSH Sector
  • India’s AYUSH sector, valued at approximately $43.4 billion, reflects a major shift from reactive health models to preventive, personalised, and integrative care.
  • The sector’s growth is driven by consumer demand, policy support, and increasing scientific legitimisation.
• Strengthening Standards and Research
  • India has taken significant steps to institutionalise and standardise traditional medicine:
    • Establishing a dedicated AYUSH department in the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
    • Contributing to global standard-setting through ISO/TC 249/SC 2
  • These initiatives aim to ensure safety, quality, and international acceptance of traditional medical systems.

WHO's Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC)

• Purpose and Vision
  • Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat and supported by the Government of India, the GTMC serves as a global hub for:
    • Evidence-based research
    • Data and analytics
    • Innovation and sustainability
  • Its mission is to optimise traditional medicine’s contribution to global health while respecting local cultures, resources, and rights.
• Evidence and Equity as Core Principles
  • The GTMC prioritises ethical, scientific, and inclusive approaches, ensuring that traditional medicine evolves responsibly and benefits all communities.

Global Collaboration and Policy Momentum

• The First WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine (2023)
  • Hosted in Gandhinagar alongside the G-20 Health Ministerial Meeting, the 2023 summit marked a milestone in global dialogue.
  • It united ministers, scientists, practitioners, and communities to strengthen political commitment and promote data-driven integration of traditional medicine.
  • The summit concluded with the Gujarat Declaration, which emphasised:
    • Biodiversity protection
    • Fair benefit-sharing
    • Digital innovation
    • Equitable access to traditional health knowledge
• The Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine (2025)
  • Building on the 2023 momentum, WHO and India will co-host the second Summit in New Delhi from December 17–19, 2025.
  • With the theme Restoring balance: The science and practice of health and well-being, the event will:
    • Advance multi-stakeholder collaboration
    • Support the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy (2025–2034)
    • Deepen scientific exploration and global innovation

Integrating Tradition, Technology, and Sustainability

• Traditional Medicine in the Future of Healthcare
  • As the world shifts toward holistic health models, traditional medicine offers valuable frameworks for preventive care and sustainable living.
  • Scientific validation and technological innovation are increasingly strengthening its credibility and application.
• India’s Integrative Approach
  • India demonstrates how ancient knowledge can coexist with modern science through:
  • Integration of research and community participation
  • Emphasis on sustainability
  • Technological advancements in health systems
  • This approach shows that traditional medicine is not opposed to modern healthcare but can enrich it.

Conclusion

• The global resurgence of interest in traditional medicine is more than a cultural revival, it is a strategic, evidence-backed response to modern health and environmental challenges.
• As nations seek holistic pathways to well-being, traditional medical knowledge offers valuable insights into balance, sustainability, and preventive care.
• India’s leadership, combined with WHO’s global initiatives, is shaping a future where traditional medicine stands validated by science, empowered by technology, and governed by ethics.