Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the centenary celebrations of Kerala’s Arya Vaidya Sala Charitable Hospital on Wednesday, hailing it as a beacon of India’s ancient healing traditions. Speaking from New Delhi, Modi emphasized the institution’s pivotal role in preserving, protecting, and promoting Ayurveda amid global health challenges.
Modi paid heartfelt tribute to the founder, Vaidyaratnam P.S. Varier, whose unwavering dedication to Ayurveda and public welfare continues to inspire generations. ‘Arya Vaidya Sala embodies the living spirit of India’s therapeutic heritage that has served humanity for centuries,’ the Prime Minister declared. He highlighted how Ayurveda has transcended time and geography, offering profound insights into life balance and harmony with nature.
Today, the institution manufactures over 600 Ayurvedic medicines and operates hospitals across India treating patients from more than 60 countries. Modi commended the trust built through relentless service, noting that when people suffer, Arya Vaidya Sala becomes their greatest hope. For a century, its charitable hospital has stood as a pillar of compassionate care, thanks to the tireless efforts of vaidyas, doctors, nurses, and staff.
Shifting focus to national initiatives, Modi recounted how traditional medicine systems were long sidelined. Over the past decade, his government has embraced a holistic health approach, establishing the Ministry of AYUSH to integrate Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, Siddha, and Yoga. Under the National AYUSH Mission, over 12,000 wellness centers have been launched nationwide.
The impact is evident: AYUSH manufacturing has surged, with exports jumping from Rs 3,000 crore in 2014 to Rs 6,500 crore today. This boom benefits farmers and positions Indian wellness products globally. Yet, Modi acknowledged challenges like the need for evidence-based research to validate Ayurveda scientifically, urging integration of modern technology and AI for predictive diagnostics and innovative treatments.
In conclusion, Modi’s address reinforced Ayurveda’s timeless relevance, calling for collective efforts to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring it thrives in the modern era.