Promotion of Unani System of Medicine and Education

Why in news

The Ministry of Ayush, through its Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Scheme, actively promotes the Unani system of medicine via awareness programs and promotional activities, including the annual observance of Unani Day.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Science & Technology, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Ministry of Ayush promotes Unani medicine through its Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Scheme.
2. Unani Day is observed annually in February to raise public awareness.
3. Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) operates 21 Clinical Institutes/Units/Centres nationwide.
4. These institutes offer Outpatient Department (OPD) services and conduct public health outreach.
5. Awareness activities include Clinical Mobile Research Programme, School Health Programme, and Mobile Healthcare Services.
6. Approximately 47 lakh people have benefited from these initiatives in the last five years.
7. CCRUM has organized 3 international conferences, 205 training programs, and 322 seminars/conferences/webinars/lectures.
8. CCRUM participated in 129 Arogya/Health Melas and exhibitions.

Prelims pointers

• Ministry of Ayush oversees the promotion of Unani medicine.
• Unani Day is celebrated in February.
• Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush.
• CCRUM runs 21 Clinical Institutes/Units/Centres across India.
• Awareness activities are conducted via mobile programs and school health initiatives.

Mains practice question

Discuss the role of the Ministry of Ayush and its associated bodies in promoting traditional Indian systems of medicine, with a specific focus on the Unani system. Analyze the impact of their outreach and research activities on public health and healthcare accessibility.

Static linkage

The promotion of traditional medicine systems like Unani falls under the broader mandate of the Ministry of Ayush, which is responsible for the development and propagation of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) systems in India. This aligns with national health policies that often emphasize integrated healthcare approaches.

Significance

The promotion of the Unani system of medicine contributes to the diversification of healthcare options available to the public. It supports the integration of traditional knowledge into modern healthcare frameworks, potentially offering cost-effective and accessible treatment modalities. The outreach programs by CCRUM are crucial for disease prevention, health promotion, and addressing lifestyle-related ailments, particularly in underserved areas. International collaborations and participation in health melas enhance the global visibility and acceptance of Unani medicine.