Nepal's Health Minister Calls for Developing Karnali and Sudurpashchim as Ayurveda Research and Production Hubs

Kathmandu. Minister for Health and Population Dr. Sudha Gautam has stated that Nepal's Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces should be developed as centers for Ayurveda medicine research and production. She clarified that the government's long-term vision is to make the country self-reliant in Ayurveda medicine production by making optimal use of the precious medicinal herbs found in Nepal's Himalayan and high hill regions.

Addressing industrialists and businesspersons from various sectors present at Pharma Expo, Minister Gautam opined that since the production of allopathic (modern) medicines is concentrated in the central and eastern regions of Nepal, Ayurveda should now be expanded to the western region. She stated that doing so would lead to balanced development of the country and ensure that all types of medicines required by Nepal are produced domestically.

Minister Gautam, who recently returned from a visit to Jumla, said, 'Our medicinal herbs are all in the Himalayas. Research and exploration in Ayurveda should be intensified at the medical colleges and institutes in Jumla. Currently, most of our pharmaceutical industries and laboratories are concentrated in Bara, Parsa, and Gandaki Province.'

'Now, Ayurvedic production should be expanded towards the West, Sudurpashchim, and Karnali. Modern medicine is produced here, and Ayurvedic medicine is produced there. Then we will get everything we need right here. This future picture of Nepal is shining brightly in my eyes like a light has been switched on,' she added.

Stating that Nepal has good potential in the fields of Ayurveda, veterinary science, and cosmetics, Minister Gautam urged industrialists in this sector to increase investment in research and maximize the use of local raw materials. She expressed confidence that if everyone works with a common vision, Nepal will soon be recognized globally in the field of medicine and herbs. —News Agency Nepal