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The growing relevance of traditional systems of medicine in addressing global health challenges and the potential of Ayush interventions in fostering wellness and resilience even in extreme ecosystems such as the Arctic were highlighted at the 2025 Arctic Circle Assembly held in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) Director-general Prof (Vaidya) Rabinarayan Acharya, part of the Indian delegation, in his address at the plenary session titled, The Role and Importance of Global South in the Arctic,  also highlighted India’s proactive engagement in the Arctic region under its comprehensive Arctic Policy. Dr. Srinivas Rao Chinta, Joint Advisor (Homoeopathy), Ministry of Ayush was also part of the delegation.

The session was organised by the Government of India and featured distinguished speakers, including Rear Admiral TVN Prasanna, Polar Coordinator, Government of India; Manish Tiwari, Scientist F, National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR); and Wassim Said, Steering Committee Member, Emirates Polar Program, UAE.

Prof Acharya outlined a forward-looking vision to enhance collaboration between traditional knowledge systems and Arctic research. He proposed the launch of transdisciplinary proof-of-concept clinical trials in Arctic settings, the establishment of a joint research consortium under the Arctic policy architecture, and the development of capacity in cross-cultural Ayush delivery and safety surveillance. He further emphasised the need for publishing robust scientific evidence to bridge traditional and modern medicine and advocated embedding Ayush awareness within India’s Arctic outreach diplomacy.

This engagement reaffirms India’s position as a responsible stakeholder promoting holistic wellness, scientific collaboration, and people-to-people partnerships under its Arctic Policy framework.

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