Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized that Ayurveda must evolve to remain relevant in today's rapidly advancing healthcare world. Speaking at the inauguration of the Shree Vishwa Lecture Series and National Ayurveda Festival in Nagpur on Friday, Gadkari highlighted Ayurveda's ancient roots and its ability to cure diseases such as cancer, asthma, and gastrointestinal issues.

The three-day event, organized by the Sri Vishwati Ayurvedic Hospital and Research Centre along with the Sri Sadguru Vishwanath Maharaj Rukdikar Trust, focuses on the importance of Ayurveda in modern times. Gadkari acknowledged the effectiveness of treatments like Panchakarma in treating chronic ailments and noted that while research in Ayurveda has made significant strides, more innovation is needed, particularly in the areas of diagnosis and medicine quality.

"The credibility of Ayurveda and its therapies is our greatest asset," Gadkari said, urging the community to maintain and strengthen this global trust. He stressed the need for further advancements to ensure Ayurveda continues to serve future generations.

Prominent figures in Ayurveda, including Anandanath Maharaj, president of the Sadguru Vishwanath Maharaj Rukdikar Trust; Rajesh Kshirsagar, executive president of the Maharashtra State Planning Commission; Dr. Jayant Devpujari, president of the Government of India's Indian System of Medicine; and Suresh Sharma, director of Baidyanath Ayurved, attended the event.

Over 3,000 delegates from across India are expected to participate in the festival, which features an Ayurveda expo, free health check-ups, treatment camps, and a series of health awareness lectures. The lecture series will continue for the next two days, offering insights for all age groups. Topics will include healthy aging for senior citizens, women's health issues, and the significance of Ayurvedic routines like 'Dincharya' and 'Rutucharya' for holistic well-being.

To engage the younger generation, the festival will host an 'Ayurkoushalyam' poster and painting competition for BAMS students and 'Jyotishmati-5', a national-level intercollegiate Ayurveda quiz for scholars. On September 22, distinguished Ayurveda practitioners will receive the 'Shree Vishwasmriti Ayurveda Sanman Puraskar' in recognition of their contributions to the field.