Shillong, October 30 : In a landmark step toward bridging traditional wisdom with modern science, PRIME Meghalaya, in collaboration with Bio-NEST NIPER Guwahati, has launched a comprehensive initiative to support and formally recognize traditional healers across Meghalaya. The partnership aims to scientifically validate indigenous healing practices while providing incubation support and enterprise development opportunities.
As part of the initiative, the Business Facilitation Team at PRIME, assisted by District Project Managers (DPMs) and Block Staff, conducted an extensive mapping of traditional healing practices throughout the state. A total of 769 traditional healers were identified and documented in a statewide database. Following a rigorous tele-verification process, 143 active traditional healers were shortlisted for the next stage of the program, which focuses on scientific validation of their remedies.
The initial phase of validation will target traditional treatments addressing gastric disorders, colic pain, malaria, acidity, gallstones, and arthritis — ailments for which indigenous knowledge has shown longstanding local effectiveness.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed with five traditional healers marking the first phase of incubation under the new program. The selected healers include: Richard SyiemM, Jop Pohtmi, Teibor Lyngdoh, Minnerson C.H. Sangma, Phidalyne Nongsiej. This milestone officially launches their journey toward scientific validation and structured incubation, paving the way for these practitioners to engage with research institutions, laboratories, and potential investors.
At the event, Ankur Adhikary, CEO of Bio-NEST NIPER Guwahati, and Dr. Bethsheba Basawiamoit, Incubation Manager, underscored the significance of the collaboration in merging traditional healing knowledge with modern scientific rigor. They highlighted that the partnership aims to create a structured platform for research, validation, and entrepreneurship in traditional medicine — ensuring both cultural preservation and economic empowerment for indigenous healers.
The collaboration between PRIME Meghalaya and Bio-NEST NIPER Guwahati represents a holistic, future-oriented approach to preserving Meghalaya’s rich heritage of traditional healing while aligning it with modern healthcare standards. By integrating scientific validation and enterprise incubation, the initiative seeks to transform indigenous healing knowledge into sustainable livelihood opportunities and foster innovation rooted in cultural heritage.
