Kathmandu, Nov. 2: Embassy of India, Kathmandu organized a discussion today on prospects for further cooperation between India and Nepal in the field of traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda, as a part of celebrations for the 8th Ayurveda Day. The event was attended by representatives of the Government of Nepal, Ayurveda Doctors Association of Nepal, Chambers of Commerce  and Ayush industry in Nepal.

         Addressing the event, Deputy Chief of Mission Prasanna Shrivastava outlined India-Nepal cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, including Ayurveda, and spoke about the various initiatives taken to promote cooperation in Ayurveda through the exchange of knowledge, expertise and capacity building. He also mentioned that celebrations of the Ayurveda Day this year align well with the theme of India’s G20 Presidency, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.  Dr. Vasudev Upadhyay, Director General (Ayurveda & Alternative Medicine), Ministry of Health and Population, Government of Nepal mentioned that Ayurveda is a recognized system of healthcare in Nepal and highlighted initiatives taken by the Government of Nepal for promotion of Ayurveda. Harkirat Singh Bedi, Business Head, Dabur Nepal, provided the industry perspective and spoke about how Dabur has developed a supply chain for sourcing herbs from Nepal leading to sustainable herb farming opportunities for local communities. Giving a practitioner’s perspective, Dr. Shyam Babu Yadav, President, Ayurveda Doctors Association of Nepal, mentioned that Ayurveda forms a core part of medicine in Nepal and highlighted its rich history in Nepal.

     Ministry of Ayush, Government of India observes Ayurveda Day every year on Dhanawantari Jayanti (Dhanteras) since 2016. The 8th Ayurveda Day on 10 November 2023 is focused on the theme ‘Ayurveda for One Health - Ayurveda for every one on every day’. Further information on this year’s Ayurveda Day may be seen at https://ayurvedaday.org.in/.

     The Embassy of India, Kathmandu is committed to promoting stronger ties between India and Nepal through promotion of Ayurveda in the spirit of One Earth One Health approach for a healthier future.