Health secy wants state to blend traditional healing with tourism industry

SHILLONG: Health secretary Pravin Bakshi said on Tuesday Meghalaya should blend naturopathy with the tourism industry in line with states like Kerala.
With the aim to promote the traditional way of healing by altering diet and lifestyle, the 1st Naturopathy Day was celebrated at Civil Hospital on Tuesday.
Bakshi, who is also the Director of AYUSH, attended the event as chief guest. The programme was organised by the Yoga and Naturopathy Department of Civil Hospital.
Bakshi said naturopathy has its roots all over the world as it is a form of treatment which is non-evasive and without side-effects.
Pointing out that since time immemorial, people have been using natural resources to heal; the Health secretary said, “We need balance to maintain a sense of wellness, which is supported through naturopathy.”
Reiterating the government’s commitment to spread AYUSH, Bakshi said the state is fortunate to have a full fledged Directorate of AYUSH and endeavours are on to equip the Directorate with more trained manpower and facilities.
Dr. L Papiah, Yoga and Naturopathy Physician, Civil Hospital Shillong spoke at length about the origins and benefits of naturopathy. She also referred to the role played by Mahatma Gandhi, who is known as India’s Father of Naturopathy, in advocating the cause of Naturopathy in the country.