President Murmu Urges Nationwide Push to Protect Medicinal Plants
President Droupadi Murmu delivered a compelling address on Wednesday, advocating for the transformation of medicinal plant conservation into a widespread mass movement. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Arogya Fair 2026 in Shegaon, Buldhana district, Maharashtra, she asserted that safeguarding India's traditional healthcare resources must extend beyond governmental initiatives and become a shared duty of all citizens.
Emphasizing the Critical Role of Medicinal Flora
The President highlighted that the "valuable wealth" of medicinal plants is crucial not only for supplying raw materials for medicines but also for maintaining environmental equilibrium. "The ancient Indian knowledge systems of ayurveda and yoga offer a pathway to a healthier future for the world. The conservation and expansion of medicinal plants must also receive equal importance and evolve into a people's movement," she declared.
This four-day fair, jointly organized by the Ministry of Ayush and the All India Ayurveda Mahasammelan, is being held at the Visava Bhakta Nivas complex. It serves as a platform to promote traditional healthcare systems and their integration into modern wellness practices.
Distinguished Gathering and Philosophical Insights
The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries on the dais, including:
- Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat
- Union Minister of State for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav
- Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse
- Maharashtra Labour Minister Akash Fundkar
- Guardian Minister of Buldhana District Makrand Jadhav Patil
- MLA Sanjay Kute
- Ayush Secretary Padma Shri Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha
- Mahasammelan President Rakesh Sharma
- Senior Ayurveda Physician Devendra Triguna
President Murmu reflected on the Indian philosophy of "Aarogyam Paramam Sukham" (health is supreme happiness), stating that balanced mental and physical health forms the foundation of a wholesome lifestyle. She stressed that citizens' well-being is essential for building a strong nation, with Ayush systems like ayurveda, yoga, and unani playing a pivotal role in achieving this objective.
Government Initiatives and Complementary Actions
The President outlined key initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Ayush, such as:
- Establishment of national Ayush institutions
- Setting up of Ayush dispensaries
- Development of drug-testing laboratories
- Revival of global traditional medicine centers
However, she emphasized that these measures must be supported by systematic conservation and broader cultivation of medicinal plants to ensure their sustainability and availability for future generations.
Support from State and Union Leaders
Governor Devvrat pointed out that India's traditional diet and lifestyle historically helped prevent illnesses, but the rising dependence on unhealthy food habits has led to an increase in lifestyle diseases. He underscored the necessity of expanding the reach of ayurveda and Ayush-based healthcare across the population.
Union Minister Jadhav noted that wellness and holistic health security are central to Ayush philosophy. With global attention shifting towards wellness, India's traditional medicine systems can position the country as a world leader. He added that farmers engaged in cultivating medicinal plants would gain economic benefits, and efforts are underway to establish a dedicated Ayush ministry in Maharashtra and enhance access to Ayush services throughout Vidarbha and the state.
Exhibition Visit and Recognitions
President Murmu toured the extensive health exhibition, visiting various stalls representing different traditional medicine systems and modern health support services. She interacted with officials and experts, commending initiatives aimed at improving access to Ayush healthcare facilities, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.
During the program, senior ayurveda practitioners were honored for their contributions, and the Ministry of Ayush received a certificate from the Guinness Book of World Records, which was formally presented to the President.
Spiritual Prelude
Prior to the main event, President Murmu visited the revered Sant Gajanan Maharaj Temple in Shegaon, offering prayers at the samadhi of Sant Gajanan Maharaj. She was accompanied by senior officials from the temple trust and the Ayush ministry during this spiritual visit.
