A national conference focused on integrating Ayurveda with modern digital technology was held at the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar. The event discussed the potential role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in research, drug development and healthcare services.
On October 15, 2026, a national conference on ‘AI and Ayurveda’ was held under ‘Ayu-Tech Navonmesh 2026’ during the 6th Foundation Day of the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar. The conference aimed to explore the possibilities of integrating Ayurveda with modern digital technology, particularly through AI. Extensive deliberations were held on the role of AI in research, its potential applications in healthcare services, and the need for responsible use of the technology.
Dr. Geetha Krishnan, Head of the Traditional Medicine Research, Data and Innovation Unit at the World Health Organization (WHO)-Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC), emphasized the immense potential AI holds to understand Ayurveda better and make its application more effective. However, she stressed that a deep understanding of Ayurveda's fundamental principles is essential before adopting any new technology.
Prof. Dr. Tanuja Nesari, Director of ITRA Jamnagar, highlighted the importance of Ayu-Tech Navonmesh 2026 as an innovation and collaboration platform for the future of Ayurveda. She noted that the event provided a forum to encourage dialogue between traditional Ayurvedic knowledge and advanced technology.
Shri Sameer Pujari, AI Lead at Digital Health and Innovation (DHI), WHO Headquarters, discussed the potential of AI in preserving knowledge, global collaboration among organizations such as WHO, International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the risks and challenges associated with AI, including ethical aspects, data privacy, and regulatory barriers.
Shri Naman Goyal, Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Ayush Grid, Ministry of Ayush, covered the basic concepts, applications, and working of AI and Machine Learning (ML). He highlighted key processes such as data collection, data processing, model training, testing, and prediction. AI-driven chatbots and digital tools under Ayush Grid were also showcased, with a focus on their role in strengthening digital health services and advancing technology-based Ayush services.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
