India, WHO Move to Globalize Siddha with Draft Technical Standards
New Delhi: India has taken a major step toward globalizing its traditional Siddha medical system, as the WHO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush and the Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS), concluded a two-day External Expert Group Meeting on July 24–25. The meeting aimed to finalize WHO Technical Reports on Training and Practice in Siddha, creating globally harmonized standards.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, emphasized evidence-based practices and strong training standards to enhance global credibility. Joint Secretary Monalisa Dash highlighted Siddha’s scientific basis and cultural heritage, calling for structured, international-level training frameworks.
Dr. Kim Sungchol, Head of WHO’s TCI Unit, lauded India’s leadership and reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to integrating Siddha into national healthcare systems while maintaining its traditional roots.
Held in hybrid mode, the meeting involved 16 experts from 11 countries, contributing region-specific insights. This milestone event strengthens India’s role in shaping global standards for traditional medicine through collaboration and scientific validation.
