New Delhi, August 7: Prataprao Jadhav, the Union Minister of State for AYUSH and Health and Family Welfare, chaired the second governing body meeting of the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) in New Delhi. He outlined a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening Sowa-Rigpa through scientific research, academic excellence, institutional development, and expansion in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR).
While setting priorities for the institution in the coming years, Minister Jadhav emphasized the need to focus on enhancing scientific research, promoting international standards, and extending the reach of Sowa-Rigpa beyond its traditional geographical boundaries.
Addressing the governing body, Jadhav stated that the goal is not limited to infrastructure development. Instead, it is to establish Sowa-Rigpa as a mainstream health system in India and globally. He asserted that the commitment to present Sowa-Rigpa as an evidence-based medical science system to the world is paramount. To achieve this, research strategies must be accelerated, and the establishment of an independent research council will be a crucial first step. An ecosystem that integrates traditional knowledge with scientific excellence through evidence-based research and empowered educational institutions must be created.
Jadhav further expressed his firm belief that the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa is not merely an institution for Ladakh but a custodian of the medical heritage of the entire Indian Himalayan Region. He urged for strengthening the regional model and deepening engagement with Himalayan communities. Greater attention should be given to the sustainable cultivation of rare medicinal plants, bio-exploration, agroforestry, and the conservation of medicinal biodiversity, allowing local communities to become equal partners in preserving and promoting this invaluable knowledge system. “Let us work together to transform this institute into a global center for holistic health,” he said.
He suggested that hundreds of Bhoti language manuscripts, rich in the invaluable knowledge and heritage of Sowa-Rigpa, should be preserved through systematic transcription and translation. As a first step, he proposed digitizing these manuscripts, followed by their translation to make this treasure trove of knowledge accessible to the public and researchers. He recommended that the digitization campaign be expedited through NISR, the Gyan Bharat Mission, or any other competent organization, and, if necessary, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. He emphasized that preserving and digitizing this invaluable knowledge is essential for safeguarding India’s traditional medical heritage and strengthening future research in Sowa-Rigpa.
AYUSH Ministry Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha stated that the ministry is committed to preserving India’s traditional medical knowledge and building empowered institutions that advance it through modern scientific approaches. He noted that NISR has emerged as a key institution in promoting Sowa-Rigpa through quality education, clinical services, research, and capacity building, reiterating the ministry’s ongoing support and commitment to its long-term development.
The governing body congratulated Dr. Padma Gurmet, Director of the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa, for being awarded the Padma Shri in 2026 for her outstanding contributions to the medical field, particularly her pioneering efforts in the revival, preservation, and institutionalization of the ancient Sowa-Rigpa medical system in India. Members praised her leadership in advancing Sowa-Rigpa through education, research, clinical services, and institutional development.
Dr. Padma Gurmet presented the institute’s progress and future action plan to the governing body. She highlighted achievements in academics, clinical services, research, medicinal plant conservation, and outreach programs, while also outlining proposals aimed at further strengthening institutional capacity and expanding the reach of Sowa-Rigpa across the country.
Sowa-Rigpa, meaning ‘knowledge of medicine’ in the Bhoti language, is one of the world’s oldest traditional medical systems and is recognized by the Government of India under the AYUSH program. Commonly known as the Amchi medical system, it is prevalent in the Indian Himalayan region and several neighboring countries. For centuries, this system has developed and thrived in the trans-Himalayan region, becoming a rich repository of traditional medical knowledge.
The governing body discussed major policy, academic, and research initiatives aimed at empowering the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa as the premier institution for education, research, and healthcare in Sowa-Rigpa. The AYUSH Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing this ancient Himalayan medical tradition through scientific validation, institutional excellence, and comprehensive public outreach.
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