NEIAFMR Pasighat Hosts National Seminar on Advancing Local Health Traditions and Biodiversity Research

The North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Folk Medicine Research (NEIAFMR), located in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, recently organized a National Seminar on Advancing Local Health Traditions and Biodiversity Research. The event aimed to promote the preservation, scientific validation, and integration of local health traditions while emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Focus on Local Health Traditions and Biodiversity

The seminar brought together experts, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the rich heritage of local health traditions practiced by indigenous communities across India. These practices, often rooted in the use of medicinal plants and natural remedies, play a crucial role in community healthcare. The event highlighted the need for scientific documentation and validation of these traditional practices to preserve and integrate them with modern healthcare systems.

Key Discussions and Insights

The seminar featured in-depth panel discussions and presentations on:

• Ethnobotanical Documentation: Identifying, cataloging, and preserving medicinal plants used in traditional healthcare.

• Biodiversity Conservation: Exploring sustainable strategies to protect indigenous plant species while supporting local communities.

• Integrative Healthcare Models: Developing frameworks to incorporate local health traditions into mainstream healthcare, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care.

Strengthening Community Participation and Collaboration

Experts stressed the importance of community involvement in preserving traditional knowledge and fostering sustainable biodiversity practices. They called for increased collaboration between scientific institutions, policymakers, and local communities to develop sustainable models that ensure the protection of both traditional healthcare practices and the environment.

Future Initiatives and Commitments

NEIAFMR announced its plans to expand research efforts in ethnobotany and biodiversity conservation while continuing to promote the scientific validation of local health traditions. The institute also aims to foster stronger ties with academic institutions, indigenous communities, and policymakers to ensure the preservation of India’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.

A Step Towards Sustainable Healthcare

By emphasizing the value of traditional knowledge and biodiversity conservation, the seminar marked a significant milestone in advancing sustainable healthcare solutions. NEIAFMR’s commitment to integrating ancient wisdom with modern science highlights a promising future where local health traditions and biodiversity preservation contribute to a healthier and more sustainable society.