Minister of State for Ayush and Health calls upon citizens to make health a priority on Dhanteras, emphasizing the importance of preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyle choices, and the Ayurvedic principle of 'Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam'.
On November 4th, 2026, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, called upon citizens to make health and preventive healthcare an integral part of Dhanteras celebrations. He emphasized that true prosperity lies in good health and well-being, encouraging families to adopt healthier lifestyle practices and prioritize disease prevention.
During his address, Shri Jadhav highlighted the significance of Dhanteras, which is associated with Dhanvantari Jayanti, commemorating the emergence of Lord Dhanvantari during the Samudra Manthan. Revered as the divine physician of the gods, Lord Dhanvantari is closely associated with Ayurveda, India's traditional science of life and health.
The minister pointed out that while Dhanteras is traditionally associated with purchasing gold, silver, and household items as symbols of prosperity, the festival also serves as a reminder that material wealth holds greater value when accompanied by good health. He encouraged families to give as much importance to safeguarding their health as they do to securing their future prosperity.
To further emphasize the importance of preventive healthcare, Shri Jadhav referred to the Ayurvedic principle 'Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam', which emphasizes the preservation of the health of healthy individuals. He highlighted the relevance of this approach in addressing growing challenges such as non-communicable diseases, sedentary lifestyles, and stress.
The minister underscored that everyday habits, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management, play an important role in maintaining overall well-being. He encouraged families to promote home-cooked and nutritious food, reduce excessive consumption of junk food, undertake regular physical activities, ensure that elderly family members receive appropriate care and attention, practice yoga regularly, and undergo timely health screenings.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
