Context
The government’s plan to promote Sowa-Rigpa, an ancient Himalayan system of medicine, through scientific research, modern standards and wider recognition. It also aims to preserve and digitise old Sowa-Rigpa manuscripts and medicinal-plant knowledge.
Key Outcomes of the Governing Body Meeting
- Establishment of an independent research council identified as the first step to build Sowa-Rigpa as an evidence-based system of medical science.
- Strengthening scientific research, promoting international standards, and expanding Sowa-Rigpa beyond its traditional geographical boundaries.
- Greater focus on sustainable cultivation of rare medicinal plants, bio-prospecting, agroforestry and conservation of medicinal biodiversity, with local Himalayan communities as equal partners.
- NISR envisioned as a global centre for holistic wellness and a mainstream healthcare system in India and abroad.
Bhoti Manuscript Digitisation Initiative
- Objective: Systematic transcription and translation of hundreds of Bhoti language manuscripts containing Sowa-Rigpa knowledge and heritage.
- Process: Digitisation proposed as the first step, followed by translation for public and researcher access.
- Implementing Agencies: Drive to be undertaken by NISR, the Gyan Bharatam Mission, or another competent body, with possible collaboration from the Ministry of Culture.
About Sowa-Rigpa (Amchi System)
- Meaning: “Knowledge of Healing” in the Bhoti language; one of the world’s oldest traditional systems of medicine.
- Recognition: Recognised by the Government of India under the Ayush framework; popularly known as the Amchi system of medicine.
- Geographical Spread: Practised across the Indian Himalayan Region and the wider Trans-Himalayan region, including several neighbouring countries.
Conclusion
The 2nd Governing Body Meeting of NISR, chaired by Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, set out a roadmap to establish Sowa-Rigpa as an evidence-based, globally recognised healthcare system through a dedicated research council, expanded institutional reach across the IHR, and digitisation of Bhoti manuscripts under the Ministry of Ayush.