Ayurvedamagazine

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  • Scientists Develop AI Tool to Map How Brain Regions Age

    Researchers have developed an artificial
    intelligence-based framework that can measure how individual brain regions age,
    offering a more detailed picture than conventional methods that estimate the
    brain’s overall biological age. The new method, explained in a study published
    in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, identifies
    differences in ageing patterns across distinct brain structures, helping
    scientists better understand age-related neurological changes.

    The researchers say the framework could
    improve the early detection of disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
    diseases by pinpointing areas showing accelerated ageing before clinical
    symptoms appear. It may also help monitor disease progression and assess the
    effectiveness of treatments.

    By revealing that different parts of the
    brain age at varying rates, the AI-powered system provides a more precise way
    to study brain health and could pave the way for personalised strategies to
    prevent and manage neurodegenerative diseases.

  • Weight Regain After Dieting May Be Driven by Brain Biology: Study

    A new study suggests that the common
    tendency to regain weight after dieting may be rooted in the brain rather than
    a lack of willpower. Researchers found that weight loss triggers changes in
    brain circuits involved in hunger, reward, and food motivation, making people
    more likely to eat and regain lost weight.

    The findings, according to an article
    published by The Conversation, indicate that the brain responds to calorie
    restriction by increasing the drive to seek food while reducing the body’s
    energy expenditure, creating biological pressure to restore lost weight. These
    adaptive mechanisms may explain why long-term weight maintenance remains
    challenging for many people.

    The researchers say a better understanding
    of these brain-driven processes could help develop more effective obesity
    treatments that target the biological factors behind weight regain, alongside
    diet and lifestyle interventions.

  • Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Intensifies; WHO Warns of Escalating Health Crisis

    The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is intensifying rapidly, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning that the virus continues to spread across multiple provinces amid conflict, displacement, and strained healthcare services. The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has become one of the most challenging public health emergencies in the region. 

    Health officials say the disease has expanded beyond its initial epicentre, fuelled by population movement, insecurity, and delayed detection of new infections. The absence of an approved vaccine or targeted treatment for the Bundibugyo strain has further complicated containment efforts, forcing health workers to rely on surveillance, isolation, supportive care, and community engagement. 

    WHO has urged an urgent scale-up of international support, warning that overwhelmed treatment centres, shortages of protective equipment, and logistical challenges threaten to outpace the response. Humanitarian agencies also caution that the outbreak is deepening food insecurity and disrupting livelihoods in eastern Congo, where conflict has already displaced millions. 

    Despite the worsening situation in the DRC, WHO maintains that the risk of wider international transmission remains low, although neighbouring countries continue heightened surveillance and border screening. Health authorities stress that early detection, rapid isolation of cases, and sustained global funding will be critical to preventing the outbreak from escalating further.

  • Ayush Ministry, IndiaAI Partner to Boost AI Use in Traditional Medicine

    The Ministry of Ayush has signed a
    Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the IndiaAI Mission under the Ministry
    of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on July 31 to facilitate the
    adoption of artificial intelligence across the Ayush sector.

    The partnership aims to strengthen
    AI-driven research, digital health, medicinal plant management, drug
    administration and capacity building by combining traditional knowledge systems
    with advanced AI technologies.

    As part of the agreement, the Ministry of
    Ayush will onboard AIKosh, IndiaAI’s repository for AI datasets and
    models, enabling the sharing of eligible health research artefacts, including
    datasets, metadata, AI models, toolkits and use cases. The move is expected to
    promote collaboration and support the responsible development of AI
    applications in traditional medicine.

    The collaboration will also provide the
    Ayush ecosystem access to GPU-based high-performance computing infrastructure
    under the IndiaAI initiative at subsidised rates, helping researchers scale
    AI-based healthcare innovations.

    The MoU was signed by Dr. Kavita Jain,
    Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, and Sudeep Srivastava, Chief Operating
    Officer of the IndiaAI Mission and Joint Secretary, MeitY, in the presence of
    senior officials from both ministries.

    Officials said the initiative marks a
    significant step towards creating a technology-enabled, evidence-based and
    future-ready Ayush ecosystem by integrating India’s traditional healthcare
    systems with modern AI capabilities.

     

  • Uganda Declares End to Latest Ebola Outbreak

    Uganda has officially declared an end to its latest Ebola outbreak after completing the required surveillance period without any new confirmed cases. The announcement marks a significant public health achievement and highlights the effectiveness of the country’s rapid response measures.

    Health authorities confirmed that the outbreak was successfully contained through early detection, swift isolation of infected individuals, extensive contact tracing, and strong community awareness campaigns. Medical teams, supported by international health organizations, worked closely with local communities to prevent further transmission of the deadly virus.

    The outbreak had raised concerns owing to Ebola’s high fatality rate and its potential to spread quickly through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. However, coordinated efforts by healthcare workers, government agencies, and global partners helped limit its impact and prevent a wider public health crisis.

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health expressed appreciation to frontline healthcare workers, volunteers, and citizens for their cooperation during the emergency. Officials also emphasised that although the outbreak has officially ended, surveillance and preparedness efforts will continue to ensure any future cases are detected and managed promptly.

    Public health experts praised Uganda’s response, noting that investments in disease surveillance and emergency preparedness have strengthened the country to tackle infectious disease outbreaks. The experience gained from previous Ebola epidemics also played a crucial role in improving response strategies.

    The World Health Organization welcomed the declaration, recognising Uganda’s commitment to controlling the outbreak and protecting public health. Health officials have encouraged neighboring countries to remain vigilant, as Ebola remains a recurring threat in parts of Central and East Africa.

    While the end of the outbreak is a major milestone, authorities continue to urge the public to practice good hygiene, report suspected illnesses promptly, and support ongoing disease monitoring efforts. Uganda’s successful containment serves as an example of how rapid action, public cooperation, and international collaboration can effectively combat infectious disease outbreaks.

  • Over One-Fifth of Indian Teenagers Face Moderate to High Risk of Substance Use: Study

    A new study has raised concerns over the growing vulnerability of adolescents in India to substance use, revealing that more than one in five teenagers may be at moderate to high risk of developing substance-related problems. The findings underscore the need for early intervention, stronger awareness programmes, and improved mental health support for young people across the country.

    Over 6000 teenagers from 108 government and private schools across India were part of the study.  Researchers found that approximately 22 percent of participants exhibited behavioural patterns associated with moderate or high risk of substance use. The study, published in The Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia, assessed the use of tobacco, alcohol, inhalants, and other psychoactive substances through standardised screening methods.

    Researchers noted that peer influence, academic stress, family conflicts, and easy access to addictive substances were among the major factors contributing to the increased risk. They also observed that substance use often coexisted with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, making early detection crucial.

    Health experts involved in the study stressed that adolescence is a critical period for physical, emotional, and psychological development. They warned that substance use during these formative years could have lasting effects on brain development, academic performance, and overall well-being.

    The study recommends integrating routine substance-use screening into school health programmes and strengthening counselling services in educational institutions. Researchers also called for greater parental awareness and community-based initiatives to help identify at-risk adolescents before substance use becomes a serious dependency.

    Public health specialists believe that preventive education, life-skills training, and accessible mental health services can significantly reduce the likelihood of substance misuse among teenagers. They emphasized that collaborative efforts involving schools, families, healthcare providers, and policymakers are essential to address the issue effectively.

    The findings add to growing evidence that substance use among adolescents is emerging as an important public health challenge in India, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies aimed at safeguarding the country’s youth.

  • Andhra Reports 10 New Covid Cases; State Count 49

    Andhra Pradesh has recorded 10 fresh Covid-19 cases, taking the total number of active infections in the state to 49, according to the latest health department data.

    While the numbers remain relatively low compared to previous waves, the fresh uptick has prompted health authorities to intensify surveillance and urge people not to let their guard down. Officials said all identified patients are under medical observation, with most experiencing mild symptoms and recovering under home isolation.

    Health experts maintain that there is no immediate cause for alarm, but caution that sporadic infections continue to surface due to the circulation of Covid-19 variants. They have advised senior citizens, individuals with underlying health conditions, and those with weakened immunity to take appropriate precautions, particularly in crowded public spaces.

    The state health department has reiterated the importance of maintaining basic preventive measures, including hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, besides seeking medical attention in case of persistent flu-like symptoms. Hospitals and district health authorities too have been asked to remain vigilant and ensure preparedness to handle any rise in infections.

    Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and have appealed to the public to rely on verified information rather than rumours. They stressed that vaccination and timely medical consultation remain the most effective safeguards against severe illness.

    With the state’s Covid-19 tally now standing at 49 active cases, health authorities are keeping a close watch on the evolving situation while emphasising that there is no indication of a widespread outbreak at present.

  • Ayush Ministry proposes traditional medicine services across military hospitals

    Ministry of Ayush has proposed expanding traditional medicine services across the Military and Field Hospitals of India, with a focus on preventive, promotive and holistic healthcare for defence personnel.

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, suggesting the establishment of Ayush outpatient departments (OPDs) and treatment facilities in military healthcare institutions.

    In his letter, Jadhav acknowledged the role of the Armed Forces Medical Services in delivering healthcare to soldiers serving in diverse and often demanding operational conditions. He said that while the Armed Forces already have a strong modern medical infrastructure, integrating Ayush systems could strengthen preventive care, lifestyle management, rehabilitation and overall well-being.

    According to the proposal, Ayush facilities are currently available only in a limited number of institutions under the Ministry of Defence. Many Military and Field Hospitals do not have dedicated traditional medicine services. The minister argued that expanding these facilities would improve access to evidence-based Ayush treatments for defence personnel.

    Jadhav said the inclusion of Ayush services would complement the existing healthcare framework rather than replace conventional medical care. He added that the initiative could contribute to a more comprehensive and patient-centric healthcare model while promoting the integration of India’s traditional systems of medicine into public healthcare.

    The Ayush Ministry has requested the Defence Ministry to consider setting up Ayush OPDs and treatment facilities in all Military and Field Hospitals. It has also offered technical support, professional guidance and institutional cooperation, including the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to facilitate implementation.

    If approved, the proposal would mark a broader collaboration between the Ministries of Ayush and Defence for extending traditional healthcare services to members of the Armed Forces.

  • ‘Prakriti Café Launched at Ayush Bhawan to Promote Healthy Workplace Nutrition

    ‘Prakriti Café’ was launched at Ayush Bhawan by the Ministry of Ayush in New Delhi on July 22 to encourage healthy eating based on the principles of ‘Ayush Ahaar’. The café was inaugurated by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav. Speaking at the launch, Jadhav said the initiative aims to promote wellness through healthier daily food choices and raise awareness about balanced nutrition. He also expressed concern over changing dietary habits and the increasing consumption of junk food, linking them to lifestyle-related diseases, particularly among young people. 

    Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha said the café seeks to bring the principles of Ayush into everyday life by encouraging mindful eating and healthier food habits in a workplace setting. The café serves a range of Ayush-inspired dishes, including millet dhokla, oats poha, little millet vegetable upma, beetroot and oats cutlets, kosambari, khandvi and makhana kheer prepared with jaggery. It also offers coconut water and herbal beverages such as tulsi-ginger tea and green tea. 

    According to the ministry, the initiative is intended to promote dietary practices rooted in India’s traditional knowledge systems while supporting preventive healthcare and fostering a healthier workplace culture. Senior officials and employees of the Ministry of Ayush attended the inauguration. 

  • Government Upgrades 12,500 Ayush Centres; ₹1,800 Crore Utilised Under NAM

    The Centre has operationalised 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Ayush) across the country by upgrading existing Ayush dispensaries and sub-health centres under the National Ayush Mission (NAM), the Ministry of Ayush informed Parliament on July 21.

    According to the government, the network comprises 10,941 upgraded Ayush dispensaries and 1,559 sub-health centres. State and Union Territory governments have reported that all approved facilities are now functional.

    The Ministry said that ₹1,872.71 crore was allocated and released under the National Ayush Mission during the past two financial years, of which ₹1,802.15 crore has been utilised by states and Union Territories.

    As part of efforts to improve access to traditional systems of medicine, the government has expanded the co-location of Ayush services with public healthcare institutions. Official data from the National Health Mission’s Medical Information System, as of December 31, 2025, shows that Ayush facilities have been integrated into 6,302 Primary Health Centres, 3,191 Community Health Centres and 475 District Hospitals across the country.

    Under this model, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare supports the deployment and training of Ayush doctors and paramedical staff through the National Health Mission, while the Ministry of Ayush provides infrastructure, equipment, furniture and medicines under the National Ayush Mission.

    The government also highlighted initiatives to promote medicinal plant cultivation through the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB). The centrally sponsored programme supports conservation of medicinal plants, farmer awareness campaigns, research and development, post-harvest infrastructure, quality planting material, testing and certification, and market linkages aimed at strengthening the medicinal plant supply chain.

    On the regulatory front, the Ministry said multiple measures are in place to ensure the quality of Ayurvedic medicines. Manufacturers are required to comply with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs Rules, 1945, including adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices and prescribed pharmacopoeial standards.

    Drug inspectors routinely collect samples from manufacturers and retail outlets for laboratory testing. Products found to be below prescribed quality standards are subject to regulatory action, including withdrawal from the market and legal proceedings where necessary.

    The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) continues to develop official standards for Ayurvedic medicines and serves as the appellate drug testing laboratory. It also conducts training programmes for regulators and drug analysts to strengthen quality assurance systems.

    According to the Ministry, 118 private laboratories and 34 state and Union Territory drug testing laboratories are currently recognised to test Ayurvedic, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Unani medicines.

    In addition, the Centre is implementing the Ayush Oushadhi Gunvatta Evam Uttpadan Samvardhan Yojana (AOGUSY) to help Ayush pharmacies and drug testing laboratories improve quality standards. Other initiatives include regulatory oversight through the Ayush Vertical in the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the Quality Council of India’s certification programme, which awards Ayush Standard Mark and Ayush Premium Mark certifications based on compliance with prescribed quality benchmarks.

    Besides, the Ayush Quality Mark Programme, launched on December 19, 2025, was intended to strengthen quality assurance and enhance the international recognition of Ayush products, according to Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.