President Murmu Inaugurates ‘Saushrutam 2026’ at AIIA, Calls for Blending Ancient Ayurvedic Wisdom with Modern Technology
On Sushruta Jayanti, the President launches a new MRI section at the All India Institute of Ayurveda and urges young doctors to uphold medical ethics and compassionate service.
NEW DELHI, July 15, 2026 – The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the three-day international seminar ‘Saushrutam 2026’ at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi today. The event, held on the auspicious occasion of Sushruta Jayanti, also saw the ceremonial inauguration of a new MRI section at the institute, marking a significant milestone in the integration of modern diagnostic tools with traditional medical systems.
In her address to the gathering, the President extended her greetings to the Ayurveda community and paid profound tribute to Acharya Sushruta, widely revered as the ‘Father of Surgery’. She noted that the surgical innovations pioneered by Sushruta centuries ago—ranging from plastic and cataract surgery to tumour treatments and ENT procedures-were revolutionary for their time.
“The ‘Sushruta Samhita’ has not only guided the Indian subcontinent but has provided a new direction to the entire world in the field of medical science,” President Murmu stated.
A Call for Modernization and Global Acceptance
The President emphasized that while the ancient traditions of Ayurveda are invaluable for human welfare, they must evolve to remain relevant in the current era. She highlighted the Government of India’s concerted efforts to re-establish Ayurveda and Yoga on the global stage through scientific validation.
“I am happy to note that the Government is making efforts to validate the ancient tradition of surgery on all scientific benchmarks,” she remarked, adding that integrating standardized documentation, digital health platforms, and modern research techniques will accelerate the global acceptance of the Ayurvedic system.
Message to the Next Generation of Healers
Addressing the young students and researchers present, the President laid out a clear vision for the future of Ayurveda. She encouraged them to pursue high-quality research driven by curiosity, integrity, and a scientific temper.
“Wherever appropriate, do not hesitate to make use of new technologies,” she advised. “Follow the path shown by Acharya Sushruta and remain steadfast in your commitment to medical ethics and compassionate service towards patients.”
The President expressed confidence that the deliberations at ‘Saushrutam 2026’ would foster new knowledge and strengthen international cooperation in the field of Ayurvedic surgery.
About the Seminar
‘Saushrutam 2026’ is a high-profile international seminar hosted by the AIIA, bringing together eminent surgeons, academicians, and researchers from India and across the globe.
About the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA)
The All India Institute of Ayurveda is an apex institute promoting the traditional Indian system of medicine through education, research, and patient care. It operates under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, and is dedicated to advancing Ayurveda through a synergy of traditional knowledge and modern scientific practices.
