India celebrated the 8th Naturopathy Day at Nisarg Gram, Yewalewadi, Pune, highlighting natural living, self-discipline and Gandhian philosophy as the pillars of holistic well-being. The National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) hosted a three-day Natural Food Festival that drew enthusiastic participation from citizens, students, and health professionals. The celebration emphasized a return to nature-based practices to overcome modern lifestyle disorders.
Governor of Maharashtra Advocates Harmony with Nature
Presiding over the event, Maharashtra Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat reinforced the importance of naturopathy as a complete way of life. He noted that naturopathy creates harmony between humans and nature and aligns with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a healthy, self-reliant society. He stressed that balanced food habits, regular exercise, mental discipline, and positive outlook enable the human body to heal naturally. He also highlighted naturopathy’s potential contribution to the nationwide obesity-reduction campaign announced by the Prime Minister.
Union Ayush Minister Highlights Nature-Based Living
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, graced the event as Guest of Honour. Emphasizing Gandhiji’s principles, he said that a chemical-free diet, natural lifestyle, and inner discipline are the keys to good health. He remarked that lifestyle diseases are increasing rapidly in the modern world, making the revival of yoga and naturopathy essential. He reminded the audience that “health cannot be bought; it must be earned,” underscoring the need for environmental responsibility and nature-friendly living.
Books, Postal Stamp and Awards Released at the Ceremony
The valedictory ceremony included the release of several books published by NIN and the unveiling of a special commemorative postal stamp dedicated to the institute. Students and participants who excelled in essay writing, slogan creation, quizzes, elocution and research competitions held as part of Mahatma Gandhi’s 156th birth anniversary celebrations were felicitated. Prestigious awards such as the Dadaji Dr Dinshaw K. Mehta Award and Dr S. N. Murty Award were also presented.
Dignitaries and Closing Ceremony Highlights
Several dignitaries attended the celebration, including Dr Kavita Jain, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Ayush; Suchita Joshi, Postmaster General, Pune Region; and Amrendra Singh, Director-in-Charge of NIN. The programme began with the National Anthem followed by the Maharashtra state song and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr D. Satyanath. The event emphasized Gandhiji’s enduring message of nature-based healing, health independence, and disciplined living.
