Buldhana, Feb 25: President Droupadi Murmu made a passionate call for widespread cultivation of medicinal plants Wednesday while inaugurating the National Arogya Fair 2026 in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district, hailing them as a “valuable wealth” that uplifts farmers’ incomes, rejuvenates soil health, and safeguards environmental balance while fueling India’s traditional AYUSH systems.
Speaking at the four-day event organized by the Union Ministry of AYUSH with All India Ayurvedic Congress, Murmu—who follows an Ayurvedic lifestyle herself—lamented vanishing forests and dwindling herbs: “Nature once met all bodily needs, but jungles are burning, and even researchers struggle to source plants. Government alone can’t fix this—everyone must pitch in for conservation and farming without waiting for aid.”
She quoted the Sanskrit wisdom “aarogyam paramam sukham” (health is the ultimate happiness), stressing healthy citizens fortify the nation while slashing healthcare burdens through prevention over cure. AYUSH methods like Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy offer holistic paths—diet rules, asanas, pranayama, natural elements—gaining global traction amid rising wellness demands.
Murmu spotlighted government strides: AYUSH wings in all new AIIMS, enhanced education/training, Leh’s Sowa Rigpa Institute, evidence-based research, standardization, and quality controls. “Modern science, innovations, and global ties will make AYUSH accessible, integrating it seamlessly into contemporary health,” she envisioned.
Post-speech, she prayed at Shri Gajanan Maharaj temple, praising the saint’s “Gan Gan Ganat Bote” mantra of equality for all beings. The fair—running through Feb 28—showcases AYUSH advancements, expecting thousands for wellness fairs, seminars, and herb expos.
