Aligning with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to promote the traditional medicine systems, the Chhattisgarh Government showcased its initiatives at the International Seminar on Medicinal Plants held in Dehradun on December 15. The seminar, convened as part of the X World Ayurveda Congress by the National Medicinal Plants Board (Ministry of AYUSH), focused on the theme: ‘Strengthening Supply Chain for Medicinal Plants: Accomplishments, Aspirations, Opportunities, and Challenges’. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Chhattisgarh has taken proactive steps to advance indigenous medical knowledge and practices. These efforts align with the broader national mission to promote the safe and effective use of traditional medicines through research, regulation, and standardisation, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.

 

At the seminar, Dr Devyani Sharma delivered an in-depth presentation on the efforts of the Chhattisgarh Forest Department to document and promote traditional healing practices. Dr Sharma, serving as the Program Coordinator at the Chhattisgarh State Centre for Climate Change under the Forest Department, Government of Chhattisgarh, represented the state at the seminar. Scientists, CEO and Ex-CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), retired Indian Forest Service officers, former Principal Chief Conservators of Forests (PCCFs) from various states, and the Director of the Quality Council of India were among those present at the seminar. The presentation highlighted the findings of a comprehensive survey conducted in 2023 with the support of the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board. This survey documented over 100 traditional healers across the Bastar, Durg, and Dhamtari regions, outlining their unique approaches to healing, which are deeply intertwined with spiritual, ecological, and community values.

 

These practices not only address a wide range of medical conditions, including critical illnesses like cancer, but also preserve cultural identity and strengthen community bonds. The initiative by the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board, in collaboration with the Quality Council of India and the University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), Bengaluru, to certify 50 traditional healers was also emphasised. This effort formally acknowledges the healers’ vital role in safeguarding cultural heritage and enhancing healthcare through indigenous practices. It was noted that this initiative is currently being implemented in only three states: Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.