The importance of evidence-based
integration of Yoga and Naturopathy in preventive, promotive, and
rehabilitative healthcare was highlighted by researchers and experts at the
National Conference on Naturopathy-2026. The conference was jointly organised
by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) and the Central Council
for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN) under the Ministry of Ayush on
February 5 and 6.
Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State
(Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, stated that improved health outcomes
have been achieved through the integration of Ayush practices, through a video
message. He laid stress on promoting research in traditional systems of
medicine and enhancing public awareness.
The main theme was ‘Yoga and Naturopathy
for a Stronger and Healthier You,’ while the sub-theme ‘SamYog’ aimed to
create a shared knowledge base for public health interventions through
integration of Ayush systems with modern medicine.
Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of
Ayush, in her inaugural address said Yoga and Naturopathy complement each other
and expressed pride in the phenomenal success of the International Day of Yoga.
Referring to ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ as the core philosophy of Indian culture,
she emphasised the need for a sustainable, integrative healthcare system.
The academic segment titled ‘Yog Samyog’
was centred on the theme ‘Yoga Research: Past, Present & Future.’ The first
session chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY featured a
keynote address by Dr. Vishwas Mandalik, Director, Yoga Vidya Gurukul, Nashik,
Maharashtra, on Yoga Nidra as Psychotherapy. He illustrated the benefits of
Yoga Nidra for health issues such as obesity, spinal disorders, and insomnia.
In his
address, Dr. Satish D. Pathak, Assistant Director of Scientific Research at
Kaivalyadhama, said increasing lifestyle disorders can be managed effectively through early diagnosis, balanced lifestyle practices, Yoga, and
natural therapies.
Most other sessions and the plenary
sessions emphasised evidence-based practices, interdisciplinary collaboration,
and the need for structured integration of Yoga with Naturopathy to strengthen
healthcare delivery.
