Leh, Sept 09: “Academic collaborations are vital in fortifying traditional systems of medicine while aligning them with modern scientific inquiry,” said Professor Saket Kushwah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, while inaugurating a six-day Continuing Medical Education (CME) program at the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR), Leh, on Monday.
The program, organized by NISR, has brought together eminent scholars and practitioners from across the country, including experts from the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (Sarnath), the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (Leh), the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (Gangtok), the Palpung Institute of Buddhist Sciences, and the Chagpori Tibetan Medical Institute (Darjeeling).
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. Tashi Thinles, Director of Health Services, Medical Education and AYUSH, UT Ladakh, and Dr. Sonam Deki, Senior Resident Doctor at the Ladakh Culture Centre, as Guests of Honour. Renowned Tibetan healing scholar Dr. Namgyal Qusar, Director of Qusar Tibetan Healing Centre, Dharamshala, joined as Special Guest, sharing his expertise and blessings with the gathering.
Outlining the objectives of the CME, NISR Director Dr. Padma Gurmet said the program is designed to update clinical knowledge, sharpen research skills, and refine patient care practices in Sowa Rigpa. “These academic engagements reinforce the foundation of Sowa Rigpa education and ensure its relevance in contemporary healthcare,” he noted.
Over the course of six days, participants will engage in lectures, practical sessions, and thematic discussions addressing the evolving role of Sowa Rigpa in modern healthcare while preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage.
The Guests of Honour highlighted the Ladakh administration’s support under AYUSH in advancing Sowa Rigpa and safeguarding the region’s unique cultural identity. The event concluded with a vote of thanks to all participating institutions and dignitaries for their contribution.
