Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud advocates for Ayurveda and holistic health, sharing his personal journey during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare, the need for equity in healthcare access, and the role of research in validating Ayurvedic practices to address modern health challenges and improve overall well-being.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud has been a strong advocate for Ayurveda and holistic health, especially after experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic. His journey with Ayurveda began during this challenging time when he turned to traditional medicine for recovery. Speaking at the International Conference on Advancements in Research and Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda, organized by the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), he emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare and holistic living.
A Personal Journey into Ayurveda
Reflecting on his experiences, the Chief Justice stated,
“During the second and third waves of the pandemic when I contracted COVID, I did not take any allopathic medicine at all. Instead, I relied solely on Ayurvedic treatments and holistic approaches.”
This experience solidified his belief in Ayurveda’s healing potential, prompting him to explore its deeper benefits.
He underscored that Ayurveda focuses on balance in body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing the significance of detoxification and life optimization as foundational principles for achieving long-term health. In today’s fast-paced world, he noted, Ayurveda serves as a strategy for managing stress and enhancing overall quality of life.
Infrastructure and Educational Advancements in Ayurveda
In his address, Justice Chandrachud highlighted the need for discussing whether the current infrastructure is prepared to meet the growing demand for Ayurvedic practices. He expressed admiration for AIIA, which has successfully treated over 2.8 million patients through 44 specialty outpatient departments (OPDs) and emphasized the importance of expanding educational opportunities.
“What truly stands out is AIIA’s dedication to expanding its reach through its extension centres,”
he said, noting the presence of one located at the Supreme Court itself. These centers play a crucial role in educating the public about Ayurveda while providing essential patient care.
Research and Evidence-Based Practices
Justice Chandrachud stressed that research is vital in validating and adapting Ayurvedic practices to address contemporary health challenges. He pointed out the launch of the Ayush Research Portal, which houses over 43,000 research articles dedicated to the scientific validation of Ayurvedic principles. This platform serves as a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars alike, promoting deeper understanding and acceptance of Ayurveda in modern healthcare.
Commitment to Equity and Access in Healthcare
The Chief Justice also emphasized the need for equity and equality in healthcare access.
“Equity and equality in healthcare are fundamental principles that ensure every individual has the opportunity to receive the medical attention they deserve,”
he asserted. With recent reports indicating that 95% of rural and 96% of urban Indians are now aware of traditional systems of medicine, the growing demand for Ayurveda reflects its expanding role in India’s health and wellness landscape.
He reminded the audience that access to essential treatments is a fundamental aspect of the right to health, closely tied to Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. “Given this context, there is a pressing need for equity in healthcare access across all communities,” he urged.
Addressing Modern Medicine’s Shortcomings
Justice Chandrachud also highlighted some drawbacks of modern medicine, including the ease of access to prescription drugs. He cautioned against the practice of self-medication, stating,
“Almost every little virus that we contract on the turn of the season is self-limiting.”
He believes that Ayurveda has the potential to remind people to address not just immediate health issues but to promote long-term wellness.
In conclusion, the Chief Justice of India’s advocacy for Ayurveda represents a significant step towards recognizing and integrating traditional medical practices within contemporary healthcare systems. His emphasis on preventive healthcare, equity in access, and the need for ongoing research underscores Ayurveda’s relevance in achieving holistic health and well-being in modern society.
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