Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first-ever WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar today. The meeting is being organised on the sidelines of G20 health Ministers'meeting in Gandhinagar.

Addressing the inaugural session, the minister said the summit will provide a unique opportunity to engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and establish international partnerships, to advance the agenda of Traditional and Complementary Medicine and work together toward promoting the potential of traditional healing practices worldwide. Stressing upon the role of Traditional and complementary medicine in promoting health, Mr Mandaviya expressed hope that the summit can be the platform to mobilize political commitment and, evidence-based action on traditional medicine, to address their health and well-being needs.

Director General of WHO Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the summit will help to unlock the potential of the ancient traditional medicine and advance their use in today's time. He urges all countries to commit to integrate traditional medicines in their National Health systems.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also inaugurated the advantage and also launched a portal for better patient mobility for medical value travel and health workforce mobility. The minister reaffirmed India's commitment towards universal healthcare system and showcased India's potential for medical tourism. Meanwhile, as part of the three-day G20 Health Minister’s Meeting, G20 Deputy Health Ministers'meeting was also inaugurated in Gandhinagar today in the presence of Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pawar. 

Addressing the meeting, Dr Bharati Pawar said, India’s G20 Presidency has revolved around the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family. She said, nowhere is this more important than in the field of global health, as the pandemic taught us that no one is safe until everyone is safe. The Minister added that Indian G20 Presidency has put a special focus on the critical threats of One Health, Anti-Microbial Resistance, and Climate Change. She said, global initiative for digital health has the potential to be a pioneering example of high-level international cooperation that directly benefits the world.
Special exhibitions on global Traditional medicines and advantage healthcare India 2023 were also inaugurated today.