The Indian Ayurvedic Medical College (IAMC) at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) commemorated its second Foundation Day today with a call for increased research and collaboration between Ayurveda and modern medicine.
Dr. Ashok Puranik, Executive Director of AIIMS Guwahati, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the promising future of Ayurveda and its potential as a complementary medicine. Dr. Puranik stressed the importance of integrating biotechnology and genetics with Ayurvedic practices and highlighted the need for research to fully understand the benefits and potential side effects of Ayurvedic medicines.
“Research is essential to understand the full spectrum of medicine effects,” said Dr. Puranik, urging students to cultivate a research-driven mindset throughout their careers.
The Foundation Day celebration marked IAMC’s successful first year since the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine approved USTM. The event featured a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and addresses from dignitaries including Dr. Swapan Kr. Chakraborty, former Head of the Department of Rog Nidan at Government Ayurvedic College, Guwahati; Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM; Padma Shri Dr. Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro Vice Chancellor of USTM; and Dr. B.K. Das, PIMC’s Principal.
Dr. Rama Kanta Sharma, Principal of IAMC, welcomed attendees, and Prof. G.D. Sharma discussed Ayurveda and IAMC’s mission. Dr. Swapan Kr. Chakraborty highlighted Ayurveda’s holistic approach to life, and Padma Shri Dr. Sarbeswar Sahariah praised Ayurveda’s rich traditions and encouraged young Ayurvedic doctors to pursue clinical and pharmaceutical research.
Prof. Dr. Anil Kumar Sharma, Advisor of IAMC, gave a vote of thanks, followed by a cultural performance by IAMC students and hospital staff.