Second WHO Traditional Medicine Summit Begins in New Delhi

The Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine commenced in New Delhi on December 17, marking a major global effort to integrate traditional medical systems into modern healthcare. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam, the three-day summit brings together global health leaders, scientists, and practitioners to deliberate on evidence-based and sustainable health practices rooted in traditional knowledge.

Theme and Global Participation

The summit is centred on the theme “Restoring Balance: The Science and Practice of Health and Well-Being.” It is jointly organised by the World Health Organization and India’s Ministry of Ayush. Participants include policymakers, researchers, Indigenous knowledge holders, and civil society representatives from across the world, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusive and holistic health systems.

Key Leaders and Inaugural Messages

Union Health Minister JP Nadda inaugurated the summit in the presence of Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed the gathering through a video message, highlighting India’s leadership in advancing traditional medicine globally. He stressed that healthcare must focus on balance, dignity, and shared human wisdom, alongside technology and treatment.

WHO Strategy and India’s Role

Dr Tedros referred to the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, adopted earlier this year. The strategy focuses on strengthening scientific evidence, ensuring safety and quality through regulation, integrating traditional medicine into national health systems, and promoting biodiversity and sustainability. India’s role was underscored through initiatives such as the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar and the launch of ICD-11 Module 2 integrating Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems.

What to Note for Exams?

• The summit is held from December 17 to 19, 2025, in New Delhi.
• Theme: “Restoring Balance: The Science and Practice of Health and Well-Being.”
• WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy covers 2025–2034.
• WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine is located in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

Focus on Research, Integration, and Sustainability

The summit features technical sessions on integrating traditional medicine into primary healthcare, standardisation of practices, and biodiversity conservation. Special attention is being given to scientific research on medicinal plants, including Ashwagandha. Indian officials highlighted international collaborations, digital platforms such as the Ayush Grid, and the use of advanced technologies to validate traditional knowledge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the closing ceremony on December 19, reinforcing India’s strategic push to position traditional medicine within global health governance.