On July 12, the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar held its first graduation ceremony. This institute is known for its focus on yoga, Ayurveda, and ancient healing methods. It was established in 2020 under the guidance of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event saw students receiving their degrees from Union Minister Pratapraw Jadhav and MP Poonamben Madam.
The ceremony was attended by key figures including Satyajit Paul from DDG Delhi, MLA Divyesh Akbari, ITRA Director Tanuja Mesri, and academic dean Prof. Hitesh Vyas. Minister Jadhav highlighted that Jamnagar is not only culturally and commercially rich but also a hub for education in Ayurveda and science. He noted that the first research center for Ayurveda and the first university for this field are located here.
Jadhav praised the establishment of a World Health Organization (WHO) collaborative center for traditional medicines in Jamnagar. This center is the first and only one dedicated to traditional medicine globally, embodying the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which means ‘the world is one family’.
He further explained that the Indian government has signed MOUs with over 24 countries at the governmental level and more than 50 at the institutional level for international cooperation in Ayurveda. The partnership aims to enhance research, education, and practice in Ayurveda.
During the ceremony, a total of 234 students received degrees, including 143 MD/MS doctors, 35 M.Pharm (Ayurveda), and others in various Ayurveda-related fields. International students studying Ayurveda also received their degrees. Outstanding students were awarded medals for their achievements.
At the end of the ceremony, two national institutions signed MOUs with ITRA to work together. These include the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology and the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homeopathy. This collaboration aims to integrate science and technology with medical practices to advance public health.
The history of ITRA dates back to 1940 when the Gulabkunverba Ayurveda Society was founded in Jamnagar to promote Ayurveda. The first postgraduate education institution for Ayurveda was established in 1956, followed by the first Ayurveda university in 1967. This university has played a crucial role in elevating the status of Ayurveda education in India.
In 2020, ITRA was formed to provide diverse and accessible education in Ayurveda, yoga, and nature therapy. It offers various degrees, including diplomas and PhDs, under the Ministry of AYUSH. The institute has also partnered with international organizations for educational exchanges and joint research projects.
During the visit, Minister Jadhav inspected various units and hospitals associated with the institute and worshiped at the Dhanvantari temple. He launched a yoga park at Dhanvantari Ground, emphasizing the institute’s commitment to promoting wellness through traditional practices.
The ITRA library features over 35,000 books on yoga, Ayurveda, and ancient treatment methods, ensuring the preservation and promotion of this knowledge. Digitalization efforts are underway to make these texts accessible worldwide, supporting the global understanding of traditional medicine.
With the establishment of the WHO-GTMC, Jamnagar aims to become a global center for traditional medicine research, advancing practices that benefit both practitioners and patients. This initiative aligns with the vision of making Ayurveda and traditional medicine accessible and beneficial to all.
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