India just hosted the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi, and in this event, India became the spotlight. Health ministers, policymakers, scientists, and traditional healers from over 100 countries came together, but everything is focused on one question, how do we responsibly bring traditional medicine into modern healthcare?
The theme of this summit is, “Restoring Balance: The Science and Practice of Health and Well-Being”. People talked and gave presentation about support traditional medicine with real validation, using smart innovation, and executing disciplinary actions for rules and guidelines.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed delegates and didn’t wary away from the tough part, that the traditional medicine needs to prove itself through science, research, and setting global standards. He pointed to India’s own systems, like Ayurveda and Yoga, as examples of how old wisdom and knowledge can work well with modern medicine, especially for prevention and lifestyle issues. Modi also talked up India’s moves to modernize, from digital platforms to quality benchmarks and working with other countries.
What stood out at the summit?
– Big international turnout. Delegates from more than 100 countries dug into how to work together on research, safety, and good governance for traditional medicine.
– Science front and center. Experts kept coming back to the need for strong evidence and thoughtful integration with today’s healthcare.
– India’s digital drive. India showed off new digital AYUSH platforms, set out new certification and quality standards, and launched important WHO reports on yoga and traditional health practices.
– Herbal remedies in focus. Plants like Ashwagandha grabbed attention, with lots of talk about their benefits—but also the need for clear safety standards.
– Strong support from the WHO. Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus admired India’s balance of tradition and science, saying it’s important for creating better health systems that works for everyone.
– The Delhi Statement. The summit wrapped up with a commitment from all sides: keep pushing research, use traditional knowledge responsibly, protect nature, and bring in more digital innovation.
Why does this all matter?
The message from New Delhi was clear—traditional medicine can play an important role in modern healthcare system, as long as it’s deep-rooted in science and properly regulated. By hosting this event and leading the conversation, India put itself right at the heart of a global effort to blend ancient wisdom with today’s health policy.