In a significant initiative to mark the 7th Naturopathy Day, the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), under the Ministry of Ayush, has launched a pan-India campaign focusing on the theme ‘Healthy Ageing and Longevity.’ The campaign emphasizes Gandhian principles of Nature Cure and sustainable living as preventive measures against diseases, targeting the well-being of India’s growing elderly population.

With the number of senior citizens in India (aged 60+) projected to rise from 153 million to 347 million by 2050, the campaign highlights the importance of fostering compassion, promoting good nutrition, adopting healthy lifestyles, and addressing emotional and mental health challenges. Additionally, the initiative underscores the need to reconnect with nature and protect against environmental and pollution-related health issues.

As part of the campaign, NIN has organized health camps at 35 old age homes in and around Pune, reaching approximately 1,500 elderly individuals. These camps included yoga sessions, health discussions, and naturopathy treatments designed to support the holistic well-being of senior citizens.

Commenting on the initiative, Prof. (Dr.) Satya Lakshmi, Director, NIN, Pune, stated, “In today’s era of nuclear families, the elderly often face social and emotional challenges. Our campaign not only provides physical health interventions but also encourages community- building and compassion. Additionally, we are engaging schoolchildren to sensitize them about the importance of caring for senior citizens.”

The campaign’s motto, ‘Turn to Nature for Physical Health’ and ‘Return to Community for Emotional and Mental Health,’ reflects the necessity of connecting with nature and fostering community bonds for holistic health.

As part of the Naturopathy Day celebrations, NIN has announced an Inter-Collegiate Intellectual Meet, scheduled for January 10–11, 2025, in Pune. This event aims to provide a platform for 500 students from yoga and naturopathy colleges across the country to engage in healthy competition and knowledge exchange.

Naturopathy Day was first declared by the Ministry of Ayush in 2018 to reaffirm its commitment to empowering individuals through health. The date, November 18, holds historical significance as the day Mahatma Gandhi became the lifetime Chairman of the All India Nature Cure Foundation Trust in 1945.

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