India has said that to promote universal holistic health, it is important to recognize and respect cultural diversity and integrate traditional healing practices into modern healthcare systems
Addressing the opening session of the Science 20 Thematic Conference on Universal Holistic Health at Bangaram Island in Lakshadweep, co-chair of Science 20 and President of Indian National Science Academy Prof. Ashutosh Kumar Sharma said this approach will promote not only health and well-being, but also helps to maintain cultural identity and values.
He said, a bouquet of approaches is needed to achieve holistic health care delivered to everyone in an inclusive, equitable and just fashion.
Prof Sharma also called for a strong mental health policy to promote mental health, prevent mental illness and ensure access to quality mental health services for all. He said mental health is not a luxury, but a fundamental human right that affects individuals, families, communities and societies as a whole.
He observed that mental health is often overlooked, stigmatized and neglected in many parts of the world, leading to a global mental health crisis. He urged the scientific community to prioritize mental health and take concrete steps to address the challenges.
48 delegates from G-20 countries are participating in the two-day meet, held as part of India's G20 Presidency.