BRICS 2026: How Global Cooperation in Traditional Medicine Will Get a Boost?
The 'New Delhi Declaration,' adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit, has significantly boosted traditional medicine. It emphasizes the importance of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) in improving healthcare and achieving 'Universal Health Coverage' (UHC). The declaration also supports the formation of a BRICS expert working group on TCIM to foster cooperation among member nations.
Traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, have been used for generations to prevent and treat diseases. The new working group will facilitate the sharing of knowledge, research, and experiences regarding traditional medicine among BRICS nations. It will also promote scientific studies aimed at making traditional treatments safer, more effective, and more reliable.
A key focus of the declaration is research into medicinal plants and herbal medicines. Many BRICS countries possess a rich tradition of using natural herbs for health and healing. By collaborating, these nations can enhance the quality of herbal products, develop superior medicines, and ensure compliance with appropriate safety standards.
India has welcomed this initiative, as it supports the global promotion of Ayurveda and other AYUSH systems. The Ministry of AYUSH has stated that scientific research, quality assurance, and international cooperation are essential for gaining widespread acceptance of traditional medicine. This effort will also encourage the exchange of research methodologies, quality standards, and regulatory processes among BRICS countries.
The declaration also underscores the importance of evidence-based traditional medicine. This implies that traditional treatments should be backed by scientific research to ensure their safety and efficacy. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also encouraged nations to strengthen research and improve the quality of traditional medicine.
Overall, the 'New Delhi Declaration' represents a significant step towards promoting traditional medicine worldwide. This creates opportunities for research, knowledge sharing, and international cooperation, helping BRICS nations provide safe, affordable, and effective healthcare while also preserving their valuable traditional medical knowledge.