Shillong, February 23 : In a momentous step towards promoting holistic healthcare and preserving traditional knowledge, the Government of Meghalaya inaugurated the Holistic Wellness Centre & Skill development Institute for Traditional Healers and Youths of Meghalaya on February 22nd, 2024.
Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Cabinet Minister for Health & Family Welfare, graced the occasion, emphasizing the importance of documenting and integrating traditional healing practices into mainstream healthcare. The Centre, funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, will offer Ayurveda, Siddha, and Meghalaya’s traditional medicine, promoting a holistic approach to healthcare and potentially attracting health tourism.
Marking another significant development, the Meghalaya Traditional Knowledge Portal was launched alongside the release of a draft book, “Meghalaya Traditional Knowledge: Supporting Document for Course Curriculum in Schools.” Funded by the Ministry of DoNER, this initiative aims to preserve and protect traditional knowledge by creating a digital repository and advocating for its inclusion in school curriculum.
Recognizing the vital role of traditional healers, the event also saw the distribution of Rs. 1.00 Lakh to four Traditional Healers Associations for operational support of their clinics established by BRDC. Dr. Lyngdoh encouraged them to utilize various government schemes to further their practices.
The event witnessed esteemed guests like Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, commending BRDC for creating a platform for indigenous medicine. Dr. Joram Beda, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, stressed collaboration with the Ministry of AYUSH, while Gunanka D.B., IFS, Jt. Secretary, emphasized networking with the Health Department. Dr. Kiran Sreedharan from Santhigiri Ashram applauded the initiative’s focus on community healthcare and healer involvement.
