“Shatavari – For Better Health” Species-Specific Campaign Launched by Ministry of Ayus

IN NEWS: “Shatavari – For Better Health” Species-Specific Campaign Launched by Ministry of Ayush

ANALYSIS

1. Launch of the Shatavari Campaign

• The Ministry of Ayush launched a nationwide species-specific campaign titled “Shatavari – For Better Health”.
• Led by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush.
• Senior officials including Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha (Secretary, Ministry of Ayush) and Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich (CEO, National Medicinal Plants Board) were present.

2. Objective and Background

• Aim: Raise awareness about medicinal plants, particularly Shatavari, known for health benefits, especially for women.
• The Minister highlighted progress made by the Ministry over the past decade and praised NMPB’s role.
• Previous successful campaigns by NMPB include those on Amla, Moringa, Giloe, and Ashwagandha, contributing to wider medicinal plant literacy.

3. Role of Shatavari in Panch Pran Goal

• Shatavari is highlighted as essential for advancing women’s health.
• Linked to the Panch Pran Goal announced by the Prime Minister on 15 August 2022, aiming for a Developed India by 2047.
• Identified as a resource contributing to the holistic well-being of citizens, specifically women.

4. Institutional Activities and Support

• Insights provided on the Central Sector Scheme for Conservation, Development, and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.
• The scheme focuses on long-term preservation and cultivation of medicinal species, including Shatavari.
• NMPB emphasized the agro-economic potential of Shatavari.

5. Financial Support

• Financial assistance of ₹18.9 lakhs will be given to eligible organizations to promote the Shatavari campaign.
• The support aims to strengthen awareness initiatives and promote wider adoption of Shatavari in public health systems.

6. Significance of Shatavari

• Recognized for multiple medicinal properties.
• Particularly beneficial for women’s health and enhancing immunity.
• The campaign will ensure wider community outreach and reinforce traditional medicine’s role in national health initiatives.

STATIC POINTERS

• National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB): Nodal agency under the Ministry of Ayush for conservation, development, and sustainable management of medicinal plants.
• Panch Pran Goals (2022):
  1. Developed India by 2047
  2. Remove traces of colonial mindset
  3. Take pride in heritage
  4. Strengthen unity
  5. Duties of citizens
• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): An important herb in Ayurveda used for women’s reproductive health, immunity, and vitality.

Updated – 06 Feb 2025 ; 05:58 PM | PIB (https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2100345)