Celebrating World Food Day 2024: Ministry of Ayush Advocates Ayurveda Aahar for Sustainable Nutrition.
New Delhi:
The Ministry of Ayush celebrated World Food Day, emphasizing the theme “Right to Food for a Better Life and Future.” The event highlighted Ayurveda Aahar’s potential to promote health, sustainability, and food security, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG-2).
Union Minister of State for Ayush, Pratap Rao Jhadhav, underscored Ayurveda’s holistic approach to nutrition, stating, “Ayurveda aims to nourish the body, bring peace to the mind, and satisfy the soul.” He reiterated the significance of viewing food as essential for maintaining a balanced life and enhancing global food security.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, shared that the introduction of Ayurveda Aahar regulations by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sparked renewed interest among various stakeholders. This traditional dietary model is recognized for its sustainability and nutritional value, significantly impacting global food practices.
The Indian Thali, celebrated for its plant-based composition, has been recognized in the WWF Living Planet Report for its ability to reduce resource usage and greenhouse gas emissions. The report suggests that adopting Indian dietary patterns could lessen the environmental burden of global food production.
Professor Anupam Srivastava from the National Institute of Ayurveda emphasized that the Ministry’s efforts align perfectly with SDG-2, addressing hunger and nutrition through innovative Ayurvedic solutions. The introduction of the “Ayush Dietary Advisory for Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” aims to enhance nutritional outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations, integrating Ayurvedic principles into everyday meals.
As World Food Day 2024 is commemorated, the Ministry of Ayush reaffirms its commitment to a disease-free future through Ayurveda Aahar, promoting natural nutrition and wellness. By embracing traditional dietary practices, India positions itself as a leader in sustainable food solutions, highlighting how local wisdom can effectively tackle global challenges in nutrition and health.
