Ayurvedamagazine

Tag: India

  • India Sees Modest Rise in COVID-19 Cases

    India is witnessing a moderate increase in COVID-19 cases, with 257 active infections nationwide as of May 23, 2025. Most cases are mild and do not require hospitalisation, though certain states—Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu—have recorded higher daily counts.

    Monitoring the JN.1 variant

    Health authorities are closely tracking the JN.1 variant, a sub-lineage of Omicron spreading across Asia, including Singapore and Hong Kong. While the variant has not led to a surge in cases in India, officials remain cautious, ensuring surveillance measures are in place to contain potential risks.

    Testing efforts and regional trends

    Maharashtra has seen a rise in detected cases due to increased random testing, but health experts maintain that there is no cause for panic. Kerala, which currently has 182 active cases, has stepped up precautionary measures to curb further transmission. While the overall numbers remain low, health experts stress the need for continued vigilance.

    Public advisory on safety measures

    Authorities continue to encourage preventive actions, urging the public to wear masks in crowded areas, maintain hand hygiene, and stay updated with official health advisories. These simple precautions can help minimise the spread and ensure continued control over the situation.

    Outlook and preparedness

    Despite the increase in cases, the situation remains manageable, with no signs of escalation. India’s health system is proactively responding, ensuring timely interventions. For real-time updates and further guidance, citizens can refer to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s COVID-19 Dashboard.

    As the pandemic evolves, experts advise staying cautious but not alarmed, reinforcing that preventive measures remain the best defence against potential spikes.

    Ayurvedic practitioners in India have long used Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy) as a potential anti-COVID-19 herb. Post-pandemic, research surged, with PubMed data showing a 376.5% increase in studies over a decade—rising from 243 in 2014 to 913 in 2024, reflecting global interest.

  • Kuwait’s Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah honored with Padma Shri for promoting Yoga and cultural harmony

    In a historic moment underscoring the global reach of yoga, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Shri upon Her Excellency Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. She becomes the first Kuwaiti national to receive this prestigious civilian honor, recognized for her pioneering contributions to yoga education and her efforts in fostering cross-cultural understanding.

    The President of India’s official account shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter):

    “President Droupadi Murmu presents Padma Shri in the field of Yoga to H.E. Shka. Shaikha Ali Jaber Al-Sabah. She is a keen yoga practitioner. She is the founder of Daratma for Yoga Education, Kuwait’s first officially licensed yoga studio. She has been working for bridging cultural gaps and bringing people together through her charitable activities.” 

    A Lifelong Journey into Yoga

    Sheikha Shaikha’s introduction to yoga was deeply personal. Although yoga and alternative therapies were familiar in her family—her grandfather and father both practiced—she truly embraced the discipline after the birth of her first child. “I felt that the health benefits for my body and my mind were immense,” she shared in an interview. “It’s just a lifelong learning experience. You never stop. You’re always a student of yoga.” 

    Her passion led her to establish Daratma in 2014, Kuwait’s first officially licensed yoga studio. The name “Daratma” combines the Arabic word “Dar” (home) with the Sanskrit word “Atma” (soul), symbolizing a sanctuary for holistic well-being and a bridge between cultures. 

    Daratma: A Hub for Wellness and Inclusion

    Daratma has become a cornerstone for yoga and wellness in Kuwait, offering classes in various disciplines such as Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Aerial, Prenatal, and Postnatal Yoga, as well as meditation and breathwork sessions. The studio welcomes individuals of all ages, genders, nationalities, and backgrounds, embodying an inclusive approach to health and spirituality. 

    Beyond its role as a yoga studio, Daratma has made significant contributions to the community. Operating as a non-profit, it aims to be a beacon for the community, offering yoga and healing practices to all, regardless of age, gender, nationality, religion, or creed. The studio also supports local artists and creatives by showcasing their work within its space, fostering a unique blend of wellness and art.

    Humanitarian Efforts and Global Recognition

    Sheikha Shaikha’s commitment extends beyond yoga. In 2021, she launched “Yomnak lil Yaman,” a fundraising initiative aimed at assisting Yemeni refugees and internally displaced persons. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she distributed educational supplies to underprivileged children in Kuwait, demonstrating her dedication to community welfare.

    Her efforts have garnered international attention. In December 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with her during his visit to Kuwait, acknowledging her passion for yoga and discussing ways to popularize it among the youth.

    Elevating Yoga on the Global Stage

    Sheikha Shaikha’s recognition with the Padma Shri underscores the universal appeal and transformative power of yoga. Her work exemplifies how ancient practices can transcend borders, fostering unity and well-being across cultures. As yoga continues to gain global prominence, her contributions serve as a testament to its potential to bridge divides and promote holistic health worldwide.

  • India can be the world’s health and wellness capital, says PM Modi

    “India has immense potential to become the world’s health and wellness capital. The day is not far when, along with “Make in India,” the world will also adopt “Heal in India” as a mantra”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said. The Prime Minister was talking after laying the foundation stone (virtually) of Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Rohini on Sunday. 

    He added that over the past decade, the AYUSH system has expanded to more than 100 countries. “To facilitate foreign citizens in availing AYUSH treatments in India, a special AYUSH visa facility has been introduced and in a short span, hundreds of foreign nationals have benefited from this facility,” the Prime Minister said. 

    Terming the upcoming Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Rohini as the ‘Ayurveda’s next big leap’, Modi said that the Government was focused on making healthcare accessible to the poorest of the poor by promoting traditional Indian medicine systems like AYUSH and Ayurveda. He also pointed out that the first World Health Organization (WHO) institution related to traditional medicine was being established in India.

    The new facility, spanning 2.92 acres with an investment of ₹187 crore, will feature a 100-bed research hospital dedicated to advancing Ayurveda research and providing healthcare services to the community. The project, set to be completed within 30 months, is expected to further strengthen India’s leadership in traditional medicine.

  • Meditation: The science, the steps involved, the benefits to be attained and more…

    On Saturday, December 21st, the world will celebrate the first-ever World Meditation Day, with India spearheading the inaugural event at UN Headquarters. Guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will be the keynote speaker for the event. It is estimated that between 200 and 500 million people practice meditation worldwide. World Meditation Day is an effort to bring balance to the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of the global populace. The date, 21st December, aligns with the Winter Solstice, which marks the start of Uttarayana, a time for inner reflection, and falls six months after International Yoga Day on 21st June.

    Meditation is a powerful tool for nurturing mental health, staying centred, and thriving in today’s fast-paced world. In Sanskrit, meditation is called ‘dhyana’, which is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Dhi’, meaning to contemplate, reflect, think or be occupied. According to Maharishi Patanjali, an incessant flow of attention on a concentrated object is called dhyana. In the words of Swami Vivekananda, ‘the highest meditation is to think of nothing. If you can remain one moment without thought, great power will come.’ Chess world champion Gukesh Dommaraju has also revealed that meditation has helped him maintain optimum mental conditioning during his intense battles.

    Meditation is easy to do but needs practice to perfect. Here are the different steps on how to meditate:

    • Find a quiet space – choose a calm environment where you won’t be disturbed 
    • Sit comfortably – sit with a straight spine and relax your shoulders 
    • Set a time limit – decide on a duration for your meditation session
    • Focus on your breath – close your eyes and pay attention to your breath
    • Cultivate awareness – notice thought and sensation without judgement, returning your focus to your breath 
    • Use a mantra or point of focus – employ a mantra or a focus object if it helps 
    • Embrace stillness and silence – allow yourself to be present in the moment without striving 
    • End mindfully – transition back to your surroundings with awareness 
    • Be patient and persistent – understand that meditation takes time and practice 
    • Stay consistent – aim for regular meditation sessions, even for short durations 

     

    Meditation is a scientifically validated practice that positively impacts both the brain and the body. The following are the benefits meditation brings to a person’s physical and mental nature:

    • Neuroplasticity – rewrites your brain to enhance memory and problem-solving skills
    • Chemical balance – boosts dopamine and serotonin levels to reduce stress
    • Emotional health – releases emotional burdens, cultivates gratitude, and promotes overall well-being.

    This manifests in day-to-day life as:

    • Reduced stress and anxiety
    • Improved focus and clarity
    • Improved emotional health
    • Attainment of inner peace

    Meditation is a simple habit with a life-changing impact. Just a few moments of meditation each day can help you improve your life manifold. Your mind and body deserve it, take a breath and join the celebration of 1st World Meditation Day on 21st December!

  • Study finds that a 40-minute daily Yoga routine can reduce the risk of diabetes by approximately 40%

    A study conducted by the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) has found that a 40-minute daily Yoga routine, incorporating select asanas and pranayama, along with standard lifestyle interventions, can reduce the risk of developing diabetes by approximately 40%. This surpasses the outcomes of existing diabetes prevention strategies in the country.

    The study, titled “Yoga and Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes – The Indian Prevention of Diabetes Study”, and published by the prestigious Elsevier Ltd, was released by Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, who is also the Life Patron of RSSDI. 

    Conducted over three years across five centres in India and involving nearly 1,000 prediabetic individuals, the study revealed the efficacy of yoga to be better than methodologies adopted by the Indian Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) which achieved a 28% risk reduction through lifestyle changes, and a 32% reduction through another trial combining lifestyle measures with stepwise medication (metformin).

    Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh said the study’s findings were a potential “game changer” for India’s healthcare system. 

    “This study stands out as the first well-designed, long-term trial to scientifically validate yoga’s effectiveness in preventing diabetes. It highlights the importance of integrating yoga into national diabetes prevention policies to achieve widespread public health benefits. With over 101 million people currently living with diabetes and another 136 million in the prediabetic stage, the study’s evidence-based approach could play a pivotal role in addressing the growing epidemic,” the minister said.

    The study was conducted by a group of eminent RSSDI members including Prof S.V. Madhu, Head of Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi; Prof H.B. Chandalia, former Head at Grant Medical College Mumbai and presently Head of Diabetes Endocrine Nutrition Management and Research Centre, Mumbai; and Dr Arvind Gupta, Manilek Research Centre, Jaipur, among others.

    This groundbreaking evidence gathered by the study reaffirms the relevance of yoga, an ancient Indian practice, in tackling modern health challenges. It marks a milestone in diabetes prevention and the findings are set to influence national and global strategies for diabetes management.

  • United Nations announces December 21 as World Meditation Day

    The United Nations (UN) has adopted a resolution announcing December 21 as World Meditation Day. The resolution was sponsored by a group of countries which included India, Sri Lanka, Liechtenstein, Nepal, Mexico, and Andorra. India’s permanent representative to the UN, ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, revealed this in a post on X. The full post is given below:

    ”A day for comprehensive well-being and inner transformation! 

    Glad that India along with other nations of the core group guided the unanimous adoption of the resolution on declaration of 21 December as World Meditation Day @UN General Assembly today. 

    India’s leadership in overall human well-being stems from our civilizational dictum of #VasudhaivaKutumbakam – the whole world is one family. 

    21 December marks the Winter Solstice, which in Indian tradition is the beginning of Uttarayana – an auspicious time of the year, especially for inner reflection. 

    India had taken the lead in declaration of 21 June, which marks Summer Solstice, as International Day of Yoga by the @UN in 2014. In a decade, it has become a global movement which has led to common people across the globe practising yoga and making it part of their daily lives.”

    The United Nations, on its website, has uploaded an article highlighting the history and benefits of meditation. 

    “According to archaeologists, meditation dates back to 5,000 BCE, and the practice itself has ties in ancient Egypt and China, Judaism, Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism. Estimates suggest that between 200 and 500 million people practice meditation worldwide. Meditation can help reduce stress, blood pressure and anxiety, promote emotional health, enhance self-awareness and improve sleep,” it says.

    “Meditation is increasingly recognized for its contributions to mental health — a fundamental human right — and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to WHO, meditation can be a powerful self-care tool to support treatment and enhance overall well-being, particularly in managing symptoms of anxiety. Incorporating mindfulness meditation into your daily routine, even for just a few minutes, can help you achieve a sense of calm and focus.” 

    “In times of global challenges, such as armed conflicts, climate crises, and rapid technological advancements, meditation offers a powerful means to cultivate peace, unity, and compassion. World Meditation Day reminds us of the importance of nurturing human consciousness to address these issues and create harmony within ourselves and our communities. By fostering inner peace through meditation, individuals contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable world for current and future generations,” the article concludes. 


  • Ayurveda takes centre stage at World Food India 2024

    The World Food India event, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, began at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, on Thursday, September 19. The Ministry of Ayush showcased the significant role of Ayurveda and different traditional medicine systems of India in modern nutrition and wellness through the Ayush Pavilion at the event, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the health benefits of integrating Ayurvedic principles into daily diets.

    The pavilion showcases India’s rich tradition of Ayurveda-inspired food practices and their relevance to current global health challenges. Key Highlights included a special exhibit focused on Ayurvedic dietary products addressing lifestyle disorders like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. The exhibit demonstrated how Ayurvedic ingredients can be incorporated into everyday meals to enhance overall health and well-being.

    “Integrating Ayurveda into mainstream nutrition and wellness is important, especially in the context of modern lifestyles,” said Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush. “Ayurveda Aahar offers scientifically backed, time-tested dietary solutions that promote holistic health. World Food India provides a perfect platform to bring this ancient wisdom to the global stage.”

    Ayurveda Aahar is a concept that blends traditional wisdom with contemporary food solutions that have attracted global attention. Mr Kotecha also mentioned the Ministry’s upcoming plans to develop standardized guidelines for Ayurvedic foods and work closely with international regulatory bodies to bring Ayurveda Aahar to global markets. 

    “Ayurveda has the potential to transform the global food landscape by offering sustainable and preventive health solutions. We are committed to promoting research and innovation in this field,” he said. 

    Additionally, the pavilion hosted live demonstrations and consultations with Ayurvedic nutrition experts, offering personalized dietary advice based on individual body types (Prakriti) according to Ayurveda. Moreover, representatives from both the public and private sectors engaged in discussions on partnerships to further Ayurveda Aahar research and product development. 

    The event brought together international and Indian companies, policymakers, and influencers in the food and agriculture sectors. The Ayush Pavilion and Ayurveda Aahar reflected India’s ongoing efforts to integrate traditional knowledge systems with cutting-edge food technology, creating a robust and health-centric food culture catering to both domestic and international markets. Yoga is also making its presence felt in the form of live demonstrations and Yoga therapy.

    The event will conclude on Sunday, September 22

  • India and Malaysia sign MoU on Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine

    India and Malaysia signed nine MoUs, including one on cooperation in the field of Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine, on Tuesday, August 20. The agreements were signed as part of Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s state visit to India. This was Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s first visit to the region and his first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

    The two Prime Ministers emphasised their commitment to continuing the partnership, including in the establishment of the Ayurveda Chair by India’s Institute for Training & Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) under the Ministry of Ayush of India at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia. Both sides also agreed to conclude the MoU on Pharmacopoeia cooperation at an early date.

    Both sides welcomed the discussions for the establishment of the Tiruvalluvar Chair of Indian Studies at the Universiti Malaya (UM). The MoU was signed by Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India and YB Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Haji Hasan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia.

    The setting up of the Ayurveda Chair at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Thiruvalluvar Chair at Universiti Malaya will enable closer cultural linkage between the two nations, said Prime Minister Modi. The Ayush Ministry welcomed the MoU. ‘This partnership marks a new chapter in advancing traditional medicine globally,’ the ministry posted on ‘X’. 

  • India commits US$ 85 million to the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre

    The Government of India has committed US$ 85 million over 10 years, 2022–2032, to support the programming of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre. The agreement was signed by Arindam Bagchi, Permanent Representative of India to the UN, Geneva, and Dr. Bruce Aylward, Assistant Director-General for Universal Health Coverage and Life Course, WHO, in Geneva on Wednesday. 

    The WHO-India donor agreement is part of a US$ 250 million investment from India in support of the establishment of the WHO Global Centre of Traditional Medicine in 2022, which includes financial support for the work of the Centre, interim premises, and a new building.

    “Traditional medicine can allow us to reach those most often left behind. Integration of traditional practice and knowledge is critical to achieving health for all,” said Dr. Bruce Aylward. “India’s commitment and leadership in expanding the evidence-based contribution of traditional medicine to the health and well-being of all people and the planet comes at an opportune moment.”

    “India remains committed to supporting WHO in its work to strengthen traditional medicine systems globally for achieving universal health coverage and serving the entire humanity, especially through the Global Centre in Jamnagar, which would help focus these efforts to benefit all Member States,” said Ambassador Arindam Bagchi. 

    India’s 10-year financial contribution will support a cross-sectoral program of work to strengthen the evidence base for traditional medicine by providing data and evidence on traditional medicine policies, practices, products, and public use. This support is expected to scale up WHO’s capacities on traditional medicine across technical divisions and regions in the spirit of global collaboration and solidarity.

  • PM Modi highlights yoga’s global growth on the 10th annual International Day of Yoga.

    The world observed the 10th annual International Day of Yoga on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the Yoga Day celebrations in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the gathering during the programme held indoors due to adverse weather, the Prime Minister highlighted the stupendous growth achieved by Yoga on a global scale in the last 10 years. 

    “International Yoga Day has completed a historic journey of 10 years. I proposed International Yoga Day at the United Nations in 2014. This proposal by Bharat was supported by 177 countries, which was a record in itself. Since then, Yoga Day has been setting new records,” Mr Modi said. 

    Noting the steady increase in the number of people practising Yoga worldwide, Narendra Modi revealed how he always gets asked about Yoga while meeting global leaders anywhere in the world. 

    “People are increasingly convinced of the utility of yoga. Whenever I meet global leaders anywhere in the world, almost everyone talks to me about yoga. Senior leaders from all over the world always discuss yoga with me and ask questions with great curiosity,” Mr Modi said. 

    Recalling the opportunity to lead the Yoga Day celebration at the UN Headquarters in the USA last year, where people from more than 130 countries participated, the Prime Minister noted how Yoga was becoming a part of daily life in many countries. 

    “Yoga therapy is included in the State Medical University of Turkmenistan. Saudi Arabia has included yoga in its education system. Several yoga schools are being run in Mongolia. About 1.5 crore people in Germany have become yoga practitioners. Major institutions and universities worldwide are researching yoga and publishing papers,” said Mr Modi. 

    The 10th International Day of Yoga was observed the world over with Yoga being performed in schools, offices, army stations, and hospitals among other places. The theme this year was “Yoga for Self and Society”, focusing on the message that the welfare of self lies in the welfare of the world around us.