CCRAS Launches “PRAGATI-2024” to Boost Collaborative Research in Ayurveda

New Delhi: The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), an autonomous body under the Union Ministry of Ayush, today launched “PRAGATI-2024” (Pharma Research in AyurGyan And Techno Innovation). This initiative aims to foster collaborative research in Ayurveda, creating opportunities for the Ayurveda drug industry and enhancing the development of high-quality, research-based Ayurvedic products.

The launch event featured an interactive meeting to explore research opportunities and collaboration between CCRAS and the Ayurveda drug industry. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, emphasized the industry’s crucial role in the development and expansion of Ayurveda. He noted that the growing number of new practitioners and startups in the sector presents significant growth opportunities.

“The potential for the Ayurveda industry is vast,” Kotecha said. “With the right collaborations and innovations, we can advance this traditional science and bring it to a global audience.”

Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General of CCRAS, highlighted the increasing global momentum of Ayush products, especially Ayurveda. “CCRAS aims to reach every stakeholder,” he stated. “We have initiated scholarship programs to help students understand the importance of research, and we are actively engaging with teachers and students to promote research in Ayurveda.”

Advisor (Ayu.) to the Ministry of Ayush, Dr. Koustubha Upadhaya, delivered an insightful address, stressing the need for synergy between research and industry. “The quality of Ayush products is fundamentally rooted in rigorous research,” Upadhaya said. “Our combined efforts must ensure the development of high-quality, safe, and effective Ayurvedic products that benefit society.”

During the event, the latest newsletter of CCRAS and the CCRAS calendar of activities for 2024-25 were also launched. Dr. N. Srikanth, Deputy Director General of CCRAS, underscored the unique scope of PRAGATI-2024, highlighting the platform’s potential for industry collaboration. He pointed out the significant share India holds in the global Ayurveda and herbal industry and emphasized the importance of this initiative in showcasing the sector’s vast potential.

The event saw participation from CEOs, MDs, Directors, and Heads of research units from 37 pharmaceutical companies. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, along with other senior officials from the ministry, also attended the event, showing strong support for the initiative.