BIMSTEC Traditional Medicine Conference Concludes in Goa
The BIMSTEC Traditional Medicine conference concluded in Goa with participation from all seven BIMSTEC Member States. The event focused on traditional medicine knowledge, genetic resources and intellectual property rights.
BIMSTEC Traditional Medicine Cooperation
The conference was accompanied by the Second BIMSTEC Nodal Group Meeting. Delegates visited the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) Goa on the second day. The visit highlighted its facilities in tertiary care and academics. Delegates also exchanged institutional best practices.
A plantation programme was organised during the event. It reflected the shared focus on traditional medicine and biodiversity conservation.
The Nodal Group identified four key areas of cooperation. These included institutional and policy cooperation, standards and trade, documentation and capacity building, and implementation mechanisms.
All seven Member States unanimously agreed to support one another in intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional medicine knowledge. This decision created a foundation for continued regional cooperation.
Goa Conclusions and Future Cooperation
Prof. Vaidya P.K. Prajapati, Director of AIIA, said the conference progressed from discussions towards consensus on several issues. He noted that the ‘Goa Conclusions’ would support future BIMSTEC cooperation.
Smt. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, appreciated the active participation and constructive cooperation of the Member States.
Mr. Kadirkamu Kandasamy Yoganaadan of the BIMSTEC Secretariat also appreciated the Ministry of Ayush and AIIA Goa for organising the conference. He highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in improving people’s well-being and preserving traditional medicine heritage.
Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean, AIIA Goa, delivered the Vote of Thanks. She expressed gratitude to the participating Member States, delegates, experts, officials and other stakeholders. The conference thus concluded with a focus on continued regional cooperation in traditional medicine.
